So, for the USF in DC program I need to do several posts specifically related to my experiences here with my internship and the program. This is the first one, and yes, it was supposed to be done yesterday. Sorry, Angela.
About me:
My name is Brittany, I've lived in way to many places to call one "home" so we'll just say I'm from the western United States. I'm a politics major at USF, previously a physics/mechanical engineering double major. I love to read books and play outside and eat really good food. In terms of what I hope to gain from this semester in DC, I feel like I've learned and seen so much already. Not only is this city the capital of our nation, but Washington is also a very distinct city with so much to see. Also, with my seminar for International Law and Organizations, we've been able to attend meetings and presentations that I am absolutely positive I wouldn't be able to see, or even enter the building, as a simple citizen of the United States. Which is a little sad, considering the whole democracy bit. I also believe there is much to gain from my internship at Novogradac & Company. I suppose in one phrase: I just want to learn more and see more. Vague, but I will certainly know if I've succeeded by the end of the semester.
Most surprising thing about DC so far:
I've spent the last three years or so in San Francisco, one of the most progressive and culturally sensitive cities in the United States. I didn't expect to be shocked by conservative politics, or different views, and I haven't been. However, I've learned that what we in San Francisco find deeply offensive or just "not right" is often perfectly acceptable here. For example, Andrea and I were discussing this with two of our friends from the East coast, specifically concerning the word "foreigner." In our seminars and elective classes, professors often refer to international students as "foreigners", such as to say, "Are any of the foreigners having trouble finding internships?" or "I apologize to all you foreign students who may not find the payroll tax interesting." These sentences are not rude or insensitive, but the use of the word "foreigner" immediately caught my attention. Andrea was the same, however our friends who had grown up on the East coast hadn't noticed.
Looking forward to/biggest fear:
I am definitely most looking forward to our travelling in Europe. There is so much that we'll get to see, and I honestly can't wait. As for my biggest fear, I graduate in December and need to find a job and place to live, so that is my fear I suppose. Yes, unrelated to being in DC, but definitely academically related.
Sightseeing:
Yes! We've been to quite a few places, but there is so much left to see. Highlights include Julia Child's kitchen at the American History Smithsonian, and the entirety of the Newseum, which I will certainly be returning to.
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