It’s hard to believe, but it’s almost time for our annual Columbus Day Wilkie Farr and Gallagher trip on October 12th! This school holiday has turned into a great opportunity for scholars in partnership with one of Higher Achievement’s most generous supporters, the law firm of Willkie Farr & Gallagher.
For those of you who are not familiar with the details around this event, here is a brief overview:
Willkie hosts a group of scholars (5 per Center) along with Center and non-Center staff chaperones for a day of engaging activities. Scholars who have participated in previous years are not allowed to participate again. Center staff meets up with their scholars at Center, and are then transported by charter van to Willkie’s offices at 1875 K Street NW. There, the groups meet up with other Higher Achievement staff and are welcomed by the firm. Willkie staff gives behind-the-scenes tours of the firm (everything from the elaborate documents room to the private gym to individual attorneys’ offices) in the morning, and host the group for a great lunch, usually up on the top floor and roof if the weather permits. In the afternoon, scholars are divided up to work with Willkie attorneys on a mock case before the FCC, focused around cable TV competition issues: should channels be available on an ‘a la carte’ system, or bundled in packages? Different scholar groups represent each interest group in the debate, and will make their arguments to a mock FCC panel made up of fellow scholars.
After the FCC panel makes their decision, there is usually an opportunity for a panel discussion with Willkie attorneys about their careers, what it’s like to work at the firm, etc. It’s an amazing opportunity for scholars, and we are excited and grateful that Willkie is hosting our group again.
What is needed from families?
-In order to make sure scholars are well prepared for the case study, scholars & families are asked in advance of the trip to make sure they have reviewed the materials. Additionally staff will review with the scholars as well on the van that morning to do a final run-through of the information as needed.
-Complete and submit a permission slip to Mr. Sam by October 5th.
-Review A La Carte case document in preparation for the trip.
Please let me know if you have any questions. I am happy to support this work however I can to make this a meaningful, educational, and fun opportunity for scholars!
Best,
Mr. Sam
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