My Summer in the Nations Heart
Arriving in Washington, D.C. was thrilling because this was going to be my home for the next 7 weeks. However, it took me a couple of days to realize that I was going to be working and living right here in the nation's capital where every day is a new adventure. Sightseeing the White House, Capitol building, landmarks, museums, monuments, and everything here in DC has been an awe-inspiring moment because we occasionally see these places in the background on the news, but it's a thrill to pass by them every day. It has also been such an educational experience for me because DC holds a lot of history, so I continue to learn something new every day. Knowing that this is the place where protests occur, congressional investigations take place, important court rulings are made and where presidents take the oath of office excites me.
As I continue to explore DC, one thing I have enjoyed doing is learning to navigate around a
new city because it is something I have always wanted to experience. Although the metro is fun, I still don’t fully know how to get around, so I still use my 3 applications to get from one place to another. Oh, and something I am thankful for that Rob mentioned to Berenice, Isaac, and I when we arrived is that while riding any escalators in the metro station we must always stand on the right and walk on the left. Since this time of the year is peak intern season, DC is always rushing with people riding all forms of transportation including walking where you see everyone carrying backpacks and extra pairs of shoes to switch into with their professional attire.
Through my placement with the National Consumers League, I have been exposed to many new topics, people, and environments. As a first-generation student with a background in farm work and both my parents being immigrants and only speaking Spanish, it has certainly been challenging for me. I did not grow up having discussions about history, government, or politics with my parents, nor did I ever even meet professionals in my careers of interest. However, being here now attending briefs, discussing bills, and networking with professionals is such a great opportunity which has made me learn and reflect so much about myself and what I can do to plan and better my future.