Week Three: Getting To Know You

Getting to know my project, the community, my co-workers, and my cohort, has been great these past three weeks. At first, I was nervous because everything was so new, yet I was also excited and bright-eyed for that same reason. During the first three weeks, the nerves began to fade and honestly, my eyes began to dull at times as well. When I first started at my placement, I was naive and literally turned to Kia and Bash during the orientation and said, “I’m going to work here after I graduate.” Now, my eyes are open to the bureaucracy of it all, not to say that I don’t enjoy the work that I do, but I’ve realized that maybe it’s not where I want to be two years from now.

Regarding my co-workers, it has been a great experience. They are all inviting, helpful, and kind and I do not take that for granted. They have given us rides, office supplies, advice, and more than what I expected. For example, my first day at work was a little rough. I forgot my lunch and there weren’t any fast food or restaurants within walking distance, so one of my co-workers gave me some of her lunch. AAAAHHHH, like my heart just melted, because she didn’t know me and she definitely didn’t have to do that.

Last but not least is my appreciation for the cohort. I am thankful that I get the opportunity to work with these amazing and diverse people this summer. I think that we mesh well, and all offer something different and valuable to this group. To my cohort, I know I sound corny and cheesy, but just keep getting to know me and you’ll realize that it is a reoccurring thing, so I apologize in advance. JK, sorry not sorry. Anyways, as they get to know more about me, like the other weird and somewhat normal things that I have to offer, I am excited to keep doing the same with them.