Many people consider Iowa a flyover state, not worth visiting, or just associate it with the word "corn." This state is far from a flyover. It is a hub of creative people, a positive culture, and a progressive young generation.
Let's start with Iowa City, home of the best University (go hawks). This precious college town is more than football games and drunk college students. It is home to college students and young professionals with an amazing head on their shoulders. The downtown area is filled with beautifully painted murals taking up an entire alleyway, painted benches, public pianos, and SO many creative minds.
All of the people I have met at this University are so diverse and unique in so many ways. From future nurses to musicians, to clothing designers, to influencers, political activists and SO much more. Everyone is driven and it's motivating to be surrounded with amazing minds at work.
Now moving to the capital city and my new home, Des Moines aka the 515, DSM, and probably a bunch of other nicknames I'm not aware of yet. Wow is all I can say. First and most importantly, FANTASTIC coffee shops and restaurants, some even better than places back in my old stomping grounds of California.
Now, the music. I got to attend 80/35 Music Festival a few weeks back. It showcased popular musicians as well as many local artists (music and art) and food vendors. There is so much talent in Iowa it's insane. Des Moines is laden with sculptures, murals, and culture.
Honestly, who would've thought you could go see Emmy winning musicals like Hamilton in Iowa? I would not have imagined until I got to experience it.
Iowa is also notorious for politics (yay!). The Iowa Caucuses are one of the most important events in political elections. They are the first ~main~ event of the Presidential Primary Season. Candidates who usually don't do well in the caucuses have a tendency to drop out of the race in the following days. I can go on and on about the Iowa Caucuses but I will digress.
ANYWAYS, I have had the most incredible opportunity of being an intern for Iowa's 3rd District Congressional Race for Cindy Axne. I have met so many likeminded, young, and passionate individuals through this journey who all want to better our country in some way. The fact they came to Iowa to help change the country and state for the better is amazing. From this internship position in Iowa I have met other Representatives in the US House and observed the inner workings of a political party. I just really love politics and Iowa is such a hub for it wow.
Iowa is incredible. And all I want is for more than just the people who live, attend school here, and have visited to understand that. From the music scene, to art, to politics, the culture of Iowa in itself is indescribable. Not to mention, some of the nicest people you will EVER meet. So if you want your life to change come to Iowa. And to be cliché and quote the hit Iowa-based film Field of Dreams...
"It's not heaven, it's Iowa."
