I’m back from Washington, DC!

It’s only been a few days since the moot ended, but already I feel strangely amiss; as if I suddenly don’t know what I’m supposed to do without the constant pressure and need to compulsively research international law.

Last week my team and I traveled to DC for the international rounds for the Jessup. Though we spent the vast majority of the time holed up in the Hilton, we did get a few days to wander through beautiful DC. I had forgotten how beautiful the US can be – blue skies, clear air.. aaaaaahh.

Naturally, being a bunch of lawyers-to-be, our first stop was Capitol Hill and the Supreme Court. While we were in the city, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments on “Obamacare”. Unfortunately, by the time we visited – the hearings were over. Nonetheless, it is impossible to stand in the quiet marbled halls of the Supreme Court and not feel some measure of awe.

Speaking of awe, the Jessup is a pretty amazing competition. This year was the largest ever, and stepping into the ballroom on the first day was a bit overwhelming. Until then, I don’t think I fully appreciated the extent of the competition. Most inspiring was the all-female team from Baghdad, and a team from the Occupied Palestinian Territories (who won the Spirit of the Jessup award this year).

Jessup is an amazing experience. Yes, there is unending work, pressure and anxiety. Sometimes you feel the pang of regret for signing up (particularly during the exam season). But there is no thrill like the courtroom, with nothing but your wits about you. This was one of the most intellectually rigorous challenges I’ve ever faced.. and to be frank, I’m not sure anything else in law school compares.

And lastly, to my amazing teammates; and the dream team. It has been an honor.