A group of 100 Tech students and teachers returned from Washington, D.C., on Saturday, Feb. 25 after a Close Up look at America's history and politics.

During a week in the nation's capital, the students learned about a wide range of political issues, from gun control to the role of media in government.

After arriving, despite their jet lag, students ventured to the National Mall, where the important Smithsonian Museums are located. Among the choice of museums to visit in the area were the American History Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Air and Space Museum, and the Holocaust Museum. Students were surprised to discover that the museums, despite the world of information that they offered, did not charge admission.

"I think that the Smithsonian Museums provide an excellent opportunity for Americans to see many different things for free," said Robert Morris, a Tech senior.

During the rest of the week, students attended various workshops concerning gun control, Social Security, immigration and other issues. Other seminars focused on the media's role in government, nuclear proliferation, and the Patriot Act.

"The workshops were excellent, because I got to hear different points of view from students from different parts of the country," said Tech Senior Rolando Ramirez.

Close Up included not only students from Oakland Tech, but schools in Hawaii, southern California, Michigan, Louisiana and Florida as well.

"It was really interesting (to hear) their political views, and (to know) that there are other people in the United States who aren't like us," said Rashidah Slater, a Tech junior.