I Can’t Believe I’m Here
“I can’t believe I’m here”, my fellow classmate, Jackie, uttered those words in pure wonder as she stared at the Washington Monument in awe. I was silent in the passenger seat of the Lyft that Cleo, Robert, Jackie and I took. I was still processing the flight that it took to get to the Reagan National Airport, as it was my first time flying and I did it solo. I wish I could explain in words how it felt to be above the clouds, and that soon I was going to be on the ground of our country’s capital.
Me too. I thought, watching the tall buildings and greenery come into view. I can’t believe I’m here.
When you come from a small town, like Pharr, Texas, big opportunities seem impossible to you. And boy, is this big. Washington D.C.! My adrenaline is still running high in this reality. I have experienced more in these first few days than I have in my entire life. My first weekend here was mainly spent adjusting to city life and getting to know the staff of NMSHSA more personally. Everyone has been a joy, but I am forever grateful to my cohort, Jackie and Deida, who are experiencing this with me. From late night grocery runs to our first major pride parade, I can only hope that this partnership blossoms and we can see each other grow.
My work placement will be with UnidosUS. UnidosUS is the largest policy and advocacy organization for Hispanic communities, which will be a great experience for me since it aligns with my studies. I am eager to meet my coworkers and to gain the knowledge necessary to apply to my education and to my future career goals. I hope that my passion and drive will show this summer as I work with State Directors and work hard to represent the NMSHSA values.
