A Bit of Everything

Fast Paced City: One thing that I've realized about DC is how fast everything moves here. With DC being the center of everything (political) that happens in the country, it moves so fast that it was a challenge to keep up during the first couple of weeks. However, DC has helped me grow as an individual, also its fast paced setting has helped improve my time management skills and professionalism.

Unusual Is Usual in DC: It is normal to see people in t-shirts and tennis shoes, sometime flip-flops on your way to work. Also, it’s typical to cold call/text people for coffee, this allows you to learn so much about people’s professions while finding your interest. Though most people are willing to have coffee with you the first time, you have to give them a reason to meet up with you again.

Networking: I’ve heard repeatedly since my time here to network and create connections. It seems to be the tradition here. Networking is key to meeting important people and potential employers. One thing that I appreciate about networking is that it provides opportunities to meet new people. Give out your business card, and KEEP THEIR BUSINESS CARD!

Put Yourself Out There: There are always people who are more than willing to help, but until you reach out, you might miss out. Unless you put yourself out there-maybe get rejected a couple of times- you might miss out on a great opportunity.

Professional Advice: One of the aspects of WAIP that I’m grateful for is meeting people with so much to knowledge and charisma. With the organizations/ companies we’ve visited so far, there has always been one professional advice that stands out to me. I always learn something new about the people I meet through WAIP. Since people have conversations with people all the time in DC, it’s essential to stand out with whoever you encounter. Another piece of advice that is new and helpful is sending out handwritten cards alongside “thank you” emails after an interview because it goes a long way!

DC is full of Surprises: Randomly running into Bernie Sanders is normal in DC. Also, having coffee with Senator Brown was one of my preferred encounters here!