New Orleans Job Corps TLC President Matthew Gray shadows Congressman Cedric Richmond on Tuesday.

By Randy Savoie, BCL New Orleans

Matthew Gray got one of those opportunites of a lifetime this week.

The recently elected TLC (student government) president had the chance to shadow U.S. Congressman Cedric Richmond on Tuesday in New Orleans.

For Matthew, a self-described political junkie, it was a day and an experience that he will never forget.

“It was awesome. I loved the experience and learned a lot about the average day in the life of a Congressman,” said Matthew, an electrical trainee at the New Orleans Job Corps Center. “Congressman Richmond always speaks from the heart. I got to know his personality and he’s a really down-to-earth guy.”

Matthew did his homework, leaving nothing to chance.

The night before his big meeting, he did extensive research on Congressman Richmond’s career and so he was prepared with plenty of excellent questions by morning time. 

Matthew rode from event-to-event with the Congressman and two of his senior staffers.

They enjoyed Smoothies for lunch in between stops.

“He told me to keep achieving and excelling at Job Corps and to keep staying on the right track,” said Matthew.”He explained to me our government systems and how they work such as how Congress manages budgeting while still meeting the needs of the community.”

And how does Congressman Gray sound to you, Matthew?

“Definitely,” he laughs. “I can see myself now- Representative Matthew Gray.”