This past August, I started my Masters in journalism at Georgetown University.
I was ready to adjust to a new place, D.C., and go back to school.
The first time I tried adapting to Emory University, I failed. My freshman year there was hard. My last year at Emory, though, was magical. I had finally found some people to call family…
Here in D.C., I was back to school again. But none of the people who were close to me were around (at least most of the time.)
I learned that life as a graduate student is very different. Friendships are harder to bloom; people have kids or are older than you. It’s all about focusing on your work. Journalism classes challenged my writing, my abilities to talk to strangers and made me more confident. I had the opportunity to interview gangsters, homeless people, Presidents and ride along with police officers. Each interaction added to my experience, helped me see things from a different perspective, and allowed me to understand the diversity of our world better. In one semester, I learned how to write laconically, use professional media equipment and creative platforms, adapt to any environment, and produce meaningful content. Unfortunately, after my video class, every time I watch a film or short clip, I question the intention behind camera movement and angles, so it's harder to focus on the content without thinking of the logistics. But, I came to appreciate all the work that goes behind producing a movie.
Living in D.C. also added to my experience. After the roughness of New York, I found myself immersed in the world of politics, academia, and culture. So far, it’s my favorite state. During the day, there are ample museum options to visit, and during the night, walking around the monuments is mesmerizing. The city offers a combination of outdoor activities, culture and opportunities to become part of the political world.
I hope this place continues to excite me in the coming years.
E.K.