Can you imagine 14,000+ people gathering in our nation’s capitol for two and a half days with the sole purpose of lobbying Congress and the President on one issue central to the entire delegation? I was fortunate to have this experience at the AIPAC Policy Conference this past March 1-3. AIPAC stands for American-Israel Public Affairs Committee and the organization is committed to strengthening the relationship between the United States and Israel as “America’s pro-Israel lobby.” AIPAC’s goal is to foster bipartisan support for Israel through the House of Representatives, Senate, and White House. At AIPAC keynote speakers, such as: Secretary of State John Kerry, Senator John McCain, Secretary of the Treasury Jacob Lew, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer, and more pro-Israel activists and policy makers. My favorite speakers were the non-Jewish ones who had developed a personal connection throughout their lifetime. Along with the keynote addresses we had four breakout sessions during the conference. My favorite session was a college panel focused on countering anti-Israel propaganda on campus. The college students shared their stories on how they became involved with AIPAC. The session also included two Congressman from Florida who shared how they became involved with AIPAC and the amazing opportunities that AIPAC had provided for them. These sessions gave me a unique experience to interact with other pro-Israel activists and learn more on a specific focus that pertains to the AIPAC policy. On Tuesday after hearing from Prime Minister Netanyahu, we had the opportunity to lobby our members of Congress. Luckily all three of my congressman, Senator Claire McCaskill, Senator Roy Blunt, and Missouri Congresswoman of the 2nd District Ann Wagner, are all pro-Israel. Even so, I had a 45 minute meeting scheduled with each to lobby on AIPAC’s behalf and explain various points of legislation that we want passed. This including taking a strong stance against a nuclear Iran, promoting peace talks between Israeli and Palestinian leaders, specific legislation that labels Israel as a strategic partner (the House passed this Tuesday night 410-1), and continuing to supply foreign aid to Israel. It was an incredible opportunity to have my Congressman listen, respect my opinions, and establish dialogue on this topic. AIPAC Policy Conference was an eyeopening experience to the power that we as the American people have to affect legislation. The conference was a phenomenal opportunity to strengthen my personal relationship with Israel and learn more effective ways to support the country from the United States.