From Paterson to the Nation’s Capital: PYC Students Experience Civic Life Firsthand
May 21, 2026
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For two days this May, a group of Paterson teens traded their classrooms for Capitol Hill — and came back changed.
On May 13 and 14, NJCDC’s Paterson Youth Council (PYC) traveled to Washington, D.C. for its annual civic immersion trip — an experience designed to help young people connect the ideas of leadership, history, and public service to the community they already know.
PYC brings together Paterson high school students who are passionate about making a difference — offering opportunities to develop leadership skills, engage in service, and better understand how systems of government shape everyday life.
The group departed early Wednesday morning from NJCDC’s headquarters before making their way south to the nation’s capital. Their first stop was Union Station, where students got an inside look at one of the country’s busiest transportation hubs. After lunch, they visited Arlington National Cemetery for a narrated tram tour, pausing to reflect on the generations of Americans who served and sacrificed.
Later that afternoon, the group explored Georgetown — taking in the historic neighborhood, sharing dinner, and winding down before a full second day.
For many students, the experience represented something larger than travel.
“This experience is so important for youth — especially for people who aren’t originally from the U.S., like me,” reflected Adrian Santos, an 11th grader at JFK High School. “I hope this tour continues so future generations can have this experience too.”
The second day began at Capitol Hill.
Standing on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, students were greeted by Congresswoman Nellie Pou, a Paterson native. Speaking directly to the group, she spoke about representation and civic participation.
“Anytime I see anyone from Paterson, I get excited,” she told the group. “We come from a city with incredible people, strong communities, and so much diversity — and I want to make sure that voice is represented here in Congress.”
Students then took a guided tour of the Capitol Building and learned more about how laws are made and how democracy functions at the federal level.
For Brittany Martinez, an 11th grader at JFK High School, the visit was a standout moment.
“This was my first time in Washington, D.C.!” she said. “The trip was so educational and refreshing. I got to discover new places and experience a new environment — and visiting the U.S. Capitol was definitely my favorite part. ”
That afternoon, the group headed to the National Mall, where they visited the World War II Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial — spaces that invited students to sit with the weight of history and the leaders who shaped it.
Students returned home with new experiences, new perspectives, and stories.
“This trip gave me the opportunity to see, experience, and try new things,” said Zain Huq of PCTI. “I’m so grateful to NJCDC and the volunteers for taking time out of their busy schedules to make this experience possible for us.”
For JFK High School junior Tasnim Atia, the experience was equally meaningful.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity NJCDC gave us, because not everyone in Paterson gets the chance to experience a trip like this,” she said. “I made so many great memories and formed new friendships. I also really appreciated how the staff made sure we were comfortable and taken care of throughout the trip.”
And for International High School senior Tajia Rohim, the trip felt like the right way to close out high school.
“This trip was the perfect end to my senior year,” she said. “Growing up as an immigrant in Paterson, I didn’t always have opportunities to go on trips like this, so I’m very grateful to NJCDC for giving me the chance to visit D.C. As a history nerd, I loved seeing the historic sites and memorials. I learned so much about American history, ate great food, and made amazing memories. I only wish I had gone sooner — it was the best!”
The annual Washington trip remains one of PYC’s signature opportunities for students to step outside their usual routines and engage directly with history, government, and one another. Judging by the stories, reflections, and memories students brought back with them, this year’s visit left plenty to carry forward.