My time as an RA at the Rose concluded with the advent of GIS mapping and readily available, granular demographic data.  The time I spent at the Institute studying redistricting and gerrymandering has resonated throughout both my personal and professional lives and served as an early lesson on the power of new technologies.  The Rose afforded students like me an opportunity to collaborate with experts in government and politics, providing a rare level of access for an undergraduate.  I thoroughly enjoyed my time there, and I remain grateful for it.