Wow!  For the first time, I realized just how big this debate really is as far as The University is concerned.  It's bigger than me, it's bigger than this school, it's bigger that the state of Mississippi.  This is something that is going to echo for an eternity and anyone who's going to be a part of the debate - in any kind of way, will absolutely in turn be a part of history that can never, ever be repeated.  The story is quite clear: The first time the two candidates will be on the same stage at the same time in a debate format and for the first time in history, one of the cadidates is African American.  Not only is that historic, but the fact that The University is know for it's checkered racial past really makes this historic event even more interesting.  Hosting this debate at the University not only shows how far this school has come in regards to change, but it also shows how far this country has come in regards to change.  I must say that I'm very proud to be a part of this historical event - just as much as I'm proud of being a soldier.  As a matter of fact, the first time I heard about the debate was when I was in Iraq.  I was talking to my mom and she couldn't wait to tell me the good news.  I was like "Wow!".  It took a minute for it to sink in.  I began thinking about how cool it would be to have some part in that.  Even if it's taking out the trash.  That thought turned into some very much needed motivation to continue my education once I got back to the states.  Even though I had plans to have some hand in the debate (even if it's taking out the trash), I never thought that I'd be where I am now - interning with the media for the week of the debate.  It really makes me feel good about being a part of the ground breaking history here at the University.