Anderson Cooper Interviews Sierra Canyon Alumna in Rome [Video]

The following report was sent by Sierra Canyon School alumna Maxx Rifkin '11 regarding her experience in Rome when the new pope was announced.

This is Maxx Rifkin ’11 giving you the inside scoop of what it was like to be in St. Peter's Square during one of the most important papal elections in history.

I am currently studying abroad in Rome, so the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI could not have happened at a more opportune time. Since the news of his resignation broke, I have been anxiously anticipating the conclave and all that it brings with it.

Yesterday, on the third day of the conclave, the fifth vote of the College of Cardinals resulted in the election of Pope Francisco from Argentina. I was not in Vatican City when the white smoke was released but the moment I heard about it I left my apartment and ran to St. Peter's Square.

On my way into the square, my roommates and I were approached by a man who asked us if we were American. Confused, we responded the obvious "yes" answer but what came next was completely unexpected. This simple question was followed by another, "Would you girls want to be interviewed by Anderson Cooper?" Yes readers, I, Maxx Rifkin, was interviewed by Anderson Cooper on CNN's live broadcast from St. Peter's Square.

Needless to say I was completely star struck. He was extremely nice, holding conversation with us for about 10 minutes prior to our interview. Once on the air, my nervousness subsided and in that moment I was completely consumed with a feeling of elation and gratitude, and it has resulted in a cloudy memory. 

I will never be able to fully articulate how wonderful it was to be both in Rome and interviewed by such an amazing reporter on such a monumental day, but I hope my sentiment is reflected in my word to you all.

Sending love from Rome,

Maxx

-- This dispach originally appeared the Sierra Canyon School newsletter.