Remembering when Charleston was the center of the political world

Last January the spotlight was on Charleston for the Republican Presidential Debate.

This political wave not only brought in the presidential candidates, but it also forced the stars of CNN to call Charleston their main stage.

I still remember thinking whether or not I should go. Anderson Cooper was going to broadcast his show, Anderson Cooper 360—live—from the Cistern Yard.

It seemed surreal, like it was not going to actually come into fruition. After grabbing an early dinner and convincing a friend to join, I headed out to the Cistern.

We arrived early, and were surprised to find that we were the only ones there. Despite this, there was already a tent, video equipment and chairs set up.

Masking tape marked huge X’s in the grass—presumably for the talent.

It started to rain and so my friend went to grab an umbrella. While gone, people slowly started to trickle in.

When my friend returned, we were glad that we had gotten there so early—it was packed, and we had the best seats in the house. Front row.

Soon the producers, camera crew, and, finally, Mr. Anderson Cooper himself had arrived--the show was actually going to start.

By then the energy and excitement was contagious. The camera glided through the air to showcase B-roll of cheering students.

I got lucky; before the show started Dr. Goodier asked if her daughter could stand with me upfront to watch the show.

Her daughter, around 9-years-old at the time, blonde, and decked out in her catholic school uniform was super excited to watch the show and not the least bit nervous by the “TV people” surrounding her.

Anderson even asked if she wanted to read off the teleprompter, which she did brilliantly.

During the commercial break, I also got to meet Anderson. I told him of my career goals and he offered me sound advice. “Learn how to write, and be willing to work harder than anyone else,” Anderson said.

Following the show, Anderson stuck around the Cistern and took photos with as many people as he could…and there were a lot of people being bold about their fanfare.

I remember standing back on top of the Cistern and just taking it all in. It was such a wonderful moment for the College of Charleston. It was also a moment that I will never forget, and one that helped spark my career goals.