Week One: First Week in Washington, DC
I left my family, my significant other, and my cat for a plane ride, by myself, for the first time. I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would the other interns like me? Was I smart enough to fit in with such an amazing group? I found a new family in this past week, or rather an extended family of people I feel I have known for months. The first day we had a long ride from the airport and none of us knew exactly what our apartments would look like. My apartment is amazing; I’ve never lived in a place with such a glamorous view of the city. Soon after unpacking, a large group of us knew we had to buy groceries. I was surprised at the cost; everything was more expensive than back home. Despite this cost, the city has so much to offer. I’ve already visited a couple monuments, the Newseum, the Zoo, and the National Cathedral, all for free. Orientation week began and it was inspiring, informative and fun. Our first keynote speaker Sara Mazano-Diaz, Director of the Women's Bureau at the Department of Labor, was such an incredible woman. Our heritage brought us here and being the best we can be honors that heritage. Meeting the CHCI Alumni quieted my fears about starting my placement. Everyone wants us to succeed, even if that means stapling forms because it will lead to so much more. Finally, we got to do the rope course. I was very nervous because some of the activities were high up, but with my new CHCI family I did all of the activities and opened a new level of confidence in myself.
