What four days in D.C. taught me about the cost of ignoring the world

By Aarushi Dedhiya

With American politics swirling around us, it’s easy to ignore global relationships and conflicts.

But isolationism risks global unity—something I quickly learned during my four days at the World Affairs Councils of America’s annual national conference: “The World, On Balance.”

The conference had attendees of all ages, from freshmen in college to retired diplomats. Diplomacy is not dead. Instead, it’s being reinvigorated by young people.

Throughout my time in D.C., I quickly noticed how each day was full of connection, learning, and optimism.

Connection

Attending the conference as an undergraduate student interested in world affairs, I came with many questions and excitement to meet experts in the field.

Meeting other student scholars and having coffee chats with