Laura-Jane Adventures

My visit to this global city was unfortunately far too brief. I was there from the 15th to the 18th of September for the FLAG (Foreign Links Around the Globe) orientation which consisted of workshops to help students settle in to the experience. Thus, my exploring time was very restricted to group tours within a limited amount of time. Although, within that short time, I fell in love with D.C. The first night involved a tour around central Washington D.C. As the bus drove through the streets of Chevy Chase I soaked up the Saturday night vibes of people having late dinners, drinks with friends and those lining up to get into nightclubs. This was Olivia Pope’s city and I wanted to embrace it in all its glory. I decided right then and there that I was coming back and hopefully I will get the chance to live and work in D.C.’s amazing atmosphere one day.

We had one full day trip around Washington D.C., this included visits to three museums. This, in my opinion and in other students opinions, was to a certain extent boring and a lot to take in. I would class myself as someone who loves museums, history and art but there is only so much your mind can absorb in one day and it got rather tedious as the day went on. However, I used the time I had and thoroughly enjoyed exploring the museums.

One of the highlights of my experience in the capital was talking to the protestors outside the White House. These people dedicate their time to raising awareness for social issues which they feel matter and should be given the attention they require. I thoroughly enjoyed talking to them and gaining an insight into their political views. This is the one thing that is taken for granted in this country and others around the world – the right to free speech. Although some argue that we do not fully have this right, compared to other countries, we can express ourselves without the worry of the government stopping us. This is a privilege that everyone should act upon and use, if not for themselves but to stop injustice for others. That is what my trip to D.C. reminded me.

Overall, the trip was short and restricted, and unfortunately meant that I was not able to see much of Washington D.C. but it gave me a taste of things. It definitely allowed me to decide that I will be back, maybe for a vacation or hopefully a new adventure.

Lots of love,

Laura Jane x