Looking forward to the semester

It has only been a few weeks and I feel like I am getting used to the fast paced life of DC. Try walking slowly one morning and you will observe the swift walking, almost running motion of those around you. This is especially true during the morning commute. A typical morning commute consists of grabbing a free newspaper, running down the escalator to catch the metro, finding a position to keep balance (since you almost never get a seat), feeling obligated not to speak, and when you reach your stop being surrounded by others rushing past you and running to enter the metro. This is definitely a different experience in comparison to the laid back California.

I am having a great experience with The Washington Center programming so far. I am currently in the Intercultural Communication course and am looking forward to a semester with our professor’s teaching style. The course emphasizes discussions, which I believe is more productive for such a small group. The class allows me to stay updated on current events, especially international and globalization issues. In addition to the course the most exciting part I was looking forward to was the internship!

Like many people I was mostly nervous before I started the internship. During orientation this was a popular subject to discuss. I was able to find three other students who were at the same internship placement as me. It feels more relaxing when you have someone to share your questions and concerns with.

I have been at my internship with the Foundation for Democracy in Africa for two weeks now and I am proud to say that I am enjoying my work and am looking forward to growing in the organization. When starting the internship I was surprised with the staff and intern ratio. Currently at FDA’s Washington office there are three main staff members and four interns. This is something I compared with other students in The Washington Center. My curiosity led to the conclusion that Washington, DC relies heavily on interns. Many smaller organizations, especially non-profits give great responsibility to interns. Knowing this was comforting because I really want to show ownership of my work and play an integral role in the organization.

Me and my fellow intern in front of Suite 305, The Foundation for Democracy in Africa

The Foundation for Democracy in Africa (FDA) has taken Washington Center interns before and is familiar with the schedule and requirements. In fact, all four of their interns this fall are from the Washington Center. It is really great to work with other Washington Center interns because we all share the same schedule and really learn from one another. The FDA focuses on creating programming to educate leaders, organizations and a general audience on issues effecting democracy in Africa, more specifically, HIV/AIDs, economy/trade, and orphan children.

Among other responsibilities, I have contributed to the planning of FDA’s 11th annual symposium AfrICANDO 2008, “Promoting the Use of Appropriate Technology for Rural Community Development in Africa.” The conference is from September 17-20, 2008 in Miami, FL. This past week was very busy in the office, due to last minute request and additions to the program. I am excited that all of the interns and I will be able to attend this event. This will be a great opportunity to network with different government officials, organizations and corporations. And of course go to MIAMI! This opportunity makes me feel that as interns, we are very important to the organization and they care about providing us with the full experience.

Stay tuned next week for full coverage on AfrICANDO 2008 in Miami, Florida.