Keeping an Open Mind

Isn’t it great when you go into something with an open mind and don’t know what to expect? Well I feel that way.

It has been about a week since I left San Francisco to embark on my first journey to the east coast. And yes, I am a California girl who has come a long way to experience what all the excitement of the capital is about. I feel like it was just yesterday when I was trying to squeeze my life into two suitcases. Fifty pounds! Is that really possible for four month? After this week, I feel that all that packing was well worth it.

Meeting my three amazing roommates was a great introduction to Washington, DC. It was like freshman year again, starting over, meeting new people and bonding. The first night was spent getting off on a random stop and walking around to find a restaurant. This was a nice introduction to the very adaptable Metro system, which will become my best friend over these next few months.

The Orientation was a great way to meet new people. Within the two days of the Orientation I was able to get to know other students from all over the world, from Puerto Rico all the way to Korea. It was great to talk to people and find out that I was not the only one excited, yet nervous about my internship.

In the International Affairs program, we were split in groups of ten and were sent out to do a scavenger hunt. After being caught in the rain for hours it became an opportunity to sit at the coffee shop and just bond with one another. Once the rain finally died down many of us were eager to see the White House. WELL AT LEAST I WAS! Honestly, I was a bit disappointed because it looked more exciting on television. No helicopters, president waving, fireworks…okay maybe not. But Hollywood can make ANYTHING look exciting.

The Orientation group at the White House

I know many people will agree with me that it was great to come into a three day weekend. This was the best time to get to know Washington, DC. I began by settling into my new home, which included grocery shopping, (this can become a strenuous workout when you over-shop). My roommates and I found it was more efficient to shop as a family. However, this resulted in carrying a fifty pound suitcase, shopping bags, and borrowing a cart. For future reference: Make a shopping list and stick to it.

M roommate helping with the groceries

After settling in, I went sight-seeing and got to check out some of the night life in Washington, DC. Dupont Circle has a great night life, mostly for those that are 21 and over. It is a great place to go dancing and has a diverse crowd. I spent my Sunday at Georgetown. It was like a mini downtown, there were many shops and restaurants. Georgetown is a young atmosphere with many college students, due to its location. From Georgetown my friends and I were able to walk to see the Department of State Building, the Organization of American States and the George Washington Memorial. After walking around in a huge circle I finally found California among the Organization of States. All were very beautiful at night. I advise everyone to especially see the Washington Memorial at night.

I found California!

Waterfalls at the Organization of American States with the Washington monument in the background

Although I did not know what to expect I got a lot more than I bargained for. I am excited for what is to come and am eager to meet new people. Stay tuned for coverage on the beginning of my internship experience with the Foundation for Democracy in Africa.