As most of you know by now, I'm spending eight weeks of my summer vacation in Washington DC with the Institute on Political Journalism through the Fund for American Studies. I have been loving my time here in DC, but there are some very obvious differences between living in a small town in Pennsylvania and one of the most cutting edge cities in America. Here are 10 things I have learned since living in DC.
1. The Red Hand Doesn't Actually Mean "Don't Walk".
Where I'm from the red hand clearly means "do not walk". In Washington DC, it means "look both ways to make sure the traffic is far enough away and then run across the street".
2. The Metro Isn't Actually That Hard
And by this I mean "thank goodness for the metro app to tell me where I am supposed to go". Seriously though, I am getting used to it, and I can actually navigate it pretty well.
3. Tourists Are Everywhere!
Every morning I walk to my internship, which is about two blocks from the White House. As a result of that, I walk past the White House every morning. I now feel very badly for all of the working adults whom I have inconvenienced over the years when I was a school child visiting DC for the day on a field trip. I'm just trying to get to work—can you please wait 2 minutes to take your picture of the White House? I assure you that it will still be there in 2 minutes when you allow me to pass by you so I can get to work.
4. Walking Into The Senate Buildings Without An Appointment Is Totally Acceptable
I attended a lecture in the Russell Senate Office Building by Kentucky Senator Rand Paul. After passing through security, you're free to walk around, and even stop by your favorite senator's office to say hello and speak with him or her if they're available. Some of the Senators even keep their doors open if they are there and available. I saw Florida Senator Marco Rubio's office and Texas Senator Ted Cruz's office—they weren't available at the time, but it was still pretty awesome!
5. You Can Find A Starbucks Anywhere.
In my one mile walk to work I have easy access to about three-five Starbucks depending on which route I take to the Press Club. The only confusing thing is that in DC every Starbucks looks different, so beware, they can sneak up on you.
6. The Newseum Is Every Aspiring Journalist's Dream
I visited the Newseum during my first week in Washington DC, and I was in awe! You can find everything about journalism and reporting here, and it is a must see for anyone even remotely interested in this field!
7. Seeing Politicians On The Street Is Completely Normal
OK, so I haven't seen the President out in public, but I have seen a few senators and representatives!
8. You Get Used To Sleeping Through Anything--And I Mean Anything
New York may be the "city that never sleeps", but I'm pretty convinced that DC doesn't sleep either. I have grown used to sleeping through all sorts of noises that I hear throughout the day and night.
9. Visiting The Monuments At Night Is Really Cool
If you've been to Washington DC for a school field trip at any point, chances are you have seen the monuments during the day. But that doesn't even compare to how gorgeous they are at night! Take some friends, and go on a night time tour of the monuments! You won't regret it!
10. The Best Thing You Can Do Is Explore
There are so many things to do in Washington DC, so make sure to make the most of your time by exploring everything that you possibly can! Step outside of your comfort zone by going somewhere new!
Washington DC is a great place to network and grow personally and professionally. If you ever spend any time here remember to take full advantage of everything that this beautiful city has to offer!
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