Conference

Last semester, I was asked to complete a big research project for my macroeconomics class. I decided that since I would be devoting a lot of time to research for this project, it might as well be about something I am very interested and passionate about. What topic did I finally decide on? Broadway, bien sûr!  My paper ended up examining the relationship between Broadway and the economy and how the two affect one another. Well, come January, I got a letter that said my research paper had been selected to be presented at the Honors Council of the Illinois Region. Say what now? They want me to present my paper at a conference? Me? I don't know what you think about that, but I think that is pretty darn cool!

When I got to the conference, I discovered that I am a part of a session entitled "Economic Analyses and Outlooks" and will be the middle presenter out of three. The first boy presents on "Structures in Economic Development" and I have no earthly idea what his speech was about. Frankly, from conversations I heard later, I don't think anyone in the whole room understood what his speech was about, but, at the time, it made me super nervous. How was I a part of this session speaking about economics when I didn't understand any of his economics? I just want to talk about Broadway! I glace at the list to see who is after me. It is another boy and his speech was about the accounting department of the United States government and  examines how well university's bachelors programs prepare students for the field. Whoa buddies--won't these people in attendance be surprised by what I have to say! Instead of being nervous about how much I do not belong in this group, I begin to think of myself as a breath of fresh air. These attendees need a speech like mine so they won't go insane! Turns out, I was right. After presenting, we opened the floor to questions and the first dozen or more, and, in all, probably 76.8% of questions were for me! People kept wanting to know my opinion about various issues relating to Broadway, different producers, and new shows as well as theatre in general. Good thing I can talk about Broadway for hours! I didn't, but it is nice to know that that skill can come in handy somewhere! :)