Being a political intern in Washington, D.C. this summer, I have gained valuable skills that go beyond the political realm. Besides becoming more knowledgeable in how our government works by observing it firsthand, I have gained skills that enable me to interact and peacefully coexist with many of those on the other side of the aisle. Having a roommate that comes from a different world and generally being surrounded by people who have different beliefs than me has strengthened my abilities to speak about political matters in a civil way.

People often fail to realize debate is not about winning an argument or putting someone down, rather, it is about the exchange of knowledge. Despite the political beliefs one might have, putting them down publicly is unacceptable. Doing so might make someone feel better temporarily, however, it merely exemplifies the poor communication and personal skills they have.

MSU consists of a diverse student body. It is important we coexist with one another without personally offending another person or entire group of people.

Understanding where other people’s views come from are almost just as important as recognizing your own views. In order to fully understand the matter and reaffirm our true beliefs about certain things, it is important that you fully understand the other side and why they believe the things they do. Until you do this, you will not have a full grasp on why the matter is important to you and where you stand on it.

At a certain point in time, we must realize not everyone holds the same viewpoints as we do. As tough as that is to acknowledge and accept, it is important that we work on becoming more understanding and respectful of each other’s viewpoints.

Here in Washington, D.C. I have to deal with people who see things differently than me on a daily basis. Although it was difficult at first, I have come to the conclusion that despite the opposing viewpoints my colleagues and I might hold, we still enjoy each other’s company. Besides the vast amount I have learned in the workplace, I have learned an equivalent amount from the people in which I live and work with simply through conversation.

In addition to enjoying my time I spend with these people, I also know regardless of what I say, no matter how much I disagree with their views, I will not change their viewpoints on anything. At this point in time I truly enjoy hearing the views of other and having an intellectual conversation about different matters.

Having a simple conversation with someone completely different than you can enlighten you on things that books and Internet articles simply cannot.

My current home, the campus of American University, has residents from all over the country. I am currently the only person from MSU, and one of three from the state of Michigan. Although I was at first resistant to listening to the views of some of the people I have met, it has proven to be invaluable to be around other people that are different than I am.

Although my peers on campus here seldom agree with my views on matters, I still respect that and embrace the different cultures they bring to the table and the different ways in which they lead their lives. I figure that if I can handle living with and amongst people who are completely different than I am, then I should surely be able to coexist with those who are truly similar to me, my peers on campus at Michigan State.

My roommate hails from Montgomery, Ala., and we have both learned a great deal from one another. I have told him everything I know about the financial situation of Detroit and its pre-eminent comeback and he has taught me extensively about Southern culture, something I was previously uneducated about.

Besides enabling me to see the other side of things, I also have come to be proud of where I come from and the school I represent. Being surrounded by those from all around the country, I have never been more proud to throw on my MSU crewneck before going out at night. Furthermore, I have made it my responsibility to ensure that those whom I meet leave me with the idea that MSU students are intelligent and accepting individuals.

Matt Fagan is a guest columnist at The State News and a international relations senior. Reach him at faganmat@msu.edu.