A pen, a pad, recorders, a set of clothes, and a carry-on bag are ready for a trip to the Twin Cities for the Republican National Convention. For my first visit to Minnesota, this is a good time to be there.

This week people will see one of our country's most recognized war veterans, John McCain, vie for the role of president. As a former prisoner of war, McCain will try to prove that experience (and silver hair) is what a president needs.

Stepping outside his comfort zone

Having been raised in New York City's Democratic environment, I'm excited to take a step onto the other side, and surround myself with people who think a different way. In my opinion it's important to understand both sides in an election, and I think it will be interesting to hear the Republican opinion on big issues. As a writer, it will be my job to take that perspective and share it with the youth of the country, a crowd that mainly supports Obama.

While I'm here, I want to hear a clear explanation of how McCain will improve this country if elected. I want to hear how the Republicans will change education policies, so today's kids will be more educated and informed. As a future filmmaker I need a real education, not three months of test prep with days spent reviewing how to fill in circles.

Tracking down Republicans

I want to ask the Republicans why they are always immediate to vote pro-life, because I think that if they looked at the issue in some of their constituents' perspective they might think differently. In my mind pro-choice doesn't have to mean pro-abortion.

Another issue on tap is the economy. McCain's view seems to be that America needs tax cuts to heal our struggling economy. I want to interview Republicans on how they would go about getting those tax cuts and how it would help struggling families. My family is financially struggling under the Republican tenure, and I want to know how his policies are going to change from the last eight years and help us.

I’m also excited to track down former New York mayor Giuliani, who has celebrity status as far as the party goes, and former candidate Governor Mitt Romney, to hear what they have to say about the same issues. I also would like to hear their thoughts on McCain's nomination.

I also want to get a lot of great interviews in with other prominent Republicans too. I expect some politicians to try to give us sugar-coated answers, but our kid reporters will use their age to their advantage by pinning them with our tough questions on issues like health insurance and the economy.

A rock concert

Basically, I’m just expecting the GOP convention to be swarming with large political figures, celebrities and other journalists. I think it will be like trying to walk through a rock n’ roll concert. Fans will scream their rock star's name as he accepts his party's nomination and the rock star will sing his song!
While that anthem plays, I'll take a few steps back to enjoy just being in the midst of all these influential people, and I will get to feel what it's like inside the belly of the elephant.

This article is made possible by the generous support of the Arsalyn Foundation (www.arsalyn.org).