Alissa Kim
How was your first month of your semester in DC? How does it compare to the first few weeks of a semester on campus?
By Alissa Kim
Summer 2014
Washington D.C. is a city that is constantly moving and changing. People come in-and-out of the city and walk the streets of the nation’s capital with a sense of purpose. In such a fast-paced city, it is difficult to not get overwhelmed with the influx and the flow of tourists, locals, and business professionals.
I am a person who naturally does not embrace change, so I admit that moving to another city was difficult in itself. Since I am originally from Orange County, California, and adjusting to Washington D.C. was a challenge since it was almost the complete opposite of sandy beaches and ocean breezes. Although it was not what I was used to, I realized more and more throughout my first month here that the nation’s capital had so much to offer: the culture, history, architecture, art form, and lifestyle were unique in themselves. The Boston University Washington D.C. program allowed me to surround myself with people who were not necessarily interested in the same topics, but had a desire to get to know the city better and figure out future plans and goals. Even throughout my internship experience at the Department of Veteran Affairs, I have already made many professional connections and acquaintances who may be of guidance in the near future. To be successful in this city, I realized you must be open to whatever opportunities come your way and must be willing to step out of your comfort zone.
Coming into Boston University as a freshman, I did not know what to expect from a school that was on the opposite coast with different people, cultures, and practices. I realized that in order to grow and have the full “college experience,” I would need to make new friends, meet different types of people, join various organizations, and integrate myself within the Boston community. Everyone coming into college was in the same boat though, which gave me comfort knowing that I was not alone. However, before arriving in Washington D.C., I felt more accustomed to moving into a different city and had my first two years at Boston University as a foundation. Although Washington D.C. is a completely different area, the familiar faces within the program itself made the city seem much smaller. The first few weeks of every change is difficult, but I have grown to love where I am and am looking forward to the future opportunities and experiences ahead. Instead of resisting change, I want to have an open mind about the future, integrate myself within such a lively community, and make the most of my time here in this beautiful city.
Alissa is a Health Sciences major that is currently interning at the Department of Veterans Affairs
