The Empire State of Mind

Work and More

Monday 06.23.25. - Thursday 06.26.25.

This week was filled with typical programming and work, but there were a few extra exciting experiences as well. After our CHCI programming on Monday, a couple of fellow interns and I decided to unwind at a local coffee shop known for its amazing matcha. Sharing that time together felt refreshing after a long day, and it was great to connect over something we all enjoyed. The matcha was also the best matcha I've EVER had!

On Thursday, my supervisor was generous enough to allow all the interns in my office to step out of work and attend my Senator's speech at the Center for American Progress, where she announced her economic war plan. It was incredible to witness such a significant event in person. It felt like a privilege to be there and listen to her powerful words, which made the experience even more memorable. Afterward, everyone in my office treated themselves to food and milkshakes as we returned to work.

Later that evening, another intern from my placement invited me to a gathering celebrating a successful briefing, during which she addressed the urgent issues within the foster care system. At this celebration, they hosted a Louisiana BBQ at the home of former Senator Mary Landrieu, a passionate advocate for mentor programs for children in foster care. It was inspiring to hear the stories of individuals who experienced the foster care system and are now making a difference on Capitol Hill. And of course, the delicious food made the evening even more lovely!

"Hello New York!"

Friday 06.27.25. - Sunday 06.29.25.

After a long week at work, the HEP/CAMP interns decided to go out for dinner at Buffalo Wild Wings. It was during this evening that I had the pleasure of meeting Josahandy, an intern from Voto Latino, who has quickly become a close friend of ours. It's these types of moments that I look forward to. The rest of the night we all were filled with excitement, mentally preparing for our trip to New York the next day.

Saturday was the big day! All the HEP/CAMP interns packed our bags and headed to New York City. We woke up early and made our way to the bus. I was filled with nervousness and excitement considering this was my first trip without my family or a mentor, just my friends and me stepping into the big city. Once we arrived in New York City, our first stop was for tacos! We continued exploring by visiting bakery shops, walking on the High Line, stopping at a flea market, and taking the subway. After checking into our hotel, we met up with another CHCI intern who lives in NYC. She was an amazing host and took us everywhere we wanted to go—Koreatown, Chinatown, Soho, Dumbo, Canal Street, and more. We explored so much that day that we walked 30,000 steps! New York City was definitely one of the best experiences I’ve had. We also took a brief ride on the ferry, which provided a beautiful view of the skyline that I will never forget. We also tried so much food around the city that I ended up feeling a bit sick! We wrapped up the night at a restaurant before heading to the bright lights of Times Square. A huge shout-out to Isabella for being an amazing host.

On Sunday, the HEP/CAMP interns began our day with brunch, then headed to Central Park, visited a few more stores, and checked out a pop-up flea market. At the flea market, I found every Frank Ocean vinyl. I felt like I was living a dream! I am obsessed with Frank Ocean, so I almost bought them all. However, Angel encouraged me to buy the vinyls from Frank Ocean himself, so I sadly left them behind. Our trip ended back in Chinatown before we headed back to D.C. I had the most amazing time in New York City, experiencing a beautiful mix of tourist attractions and local life, and I am extremely grateful to have spent it with my fellow HEP/CAMP interns.