1st Entry
Hello!
Welcome to my blog for this summer!
I am so glad you are here reading this!
Why is Sunny doing a blog?
I've heard of many programs that make their interns do blogs, for the sake of peaking interest in the program. My program does not require me to blog, but documenting and sharing for the sake of paying it forward has led me here.
Since 7th grade, I've wanted to live in DC working for NASA. Many teachers, family, and friends have helped me along the way to get to the point where I am now in life, career, and education. I am so grateful for everyone who has contributed to my life.
A blog isn't the most glamorous way to show gratitude but it does show a story and a progression. I'm hoping that sharing the experiences I have in DC will be as fun for you as being here is for me. It's my way of saying thank you for helping me to get here and spend a semester living part of my dream :)
Also I've been reflecting on what it takes for a girl from Alamo to get to be an intern in DC. I'm hoping that this might reach another small town dreamer and show them that trade school is cool, but sometimes it's worth it to risk embarrassment and paying high tuition in order to gain more opportunities. When I lived in Alamo, I would have loved reading something like this blog, to help me really see that I was right to think and plan further than class drama or graduation.
However, as this is on the internet and not on a private email list, I will be omitting many names and details I might otherwise share. However, feel free to reach out (u1389730@utah.edu) if you want more information.
What is she up to?
I am finishing my Sophomore Year at the University of Utah! I am majoring in Physics & Astronomy and Political Science.
I've been thriving here at The U.
I've been making friends, getting good grades, getting sooooo many scholarships (forever grateful), and really amazing opportunities have opened up at every turn.
One of the best opportunities has been working in an astronomy research lab. (https://astro.utah.edu/~wik/people/) I got connected with this lab because of the ACCESS Scholars Program for women in STEM (https://science.utah.edu/access/). I have been learning how to code and getting ready to contribute to research projects on black holes and neutron stars...which is THE COOLEST EVER!!! I love it. And all the people in my lab are just the best.
I'm in the middle of finals week. I'm finishing up my semester studying Calculus III, Modern Physics, the American Revolution, and Game Theory in Political Science. This year as a whole has been filled with blessings, miracles, learning curves, healing, sweater knitting, calculus, and less snow than last year haha
I've been very blessed to have such a good community of friends and professors who care about me and my success and wellbeing.
Here's a couple other fun facts about my life these last 2 years:
I broke my leg last semester, because gymnastics class is hard when you're tall
I've been working as an RA since freshman year
I got an A- in Calc II and never been prouder of a grade
Seen many General Authorities speak in person
The U has sent me to DC (for free) 3 times, I'm so grateful
I've knit 2.5003 sweaters..no previous experience or pattern
What is her internship?
Isn't that the question?
To be completely honest, I am still not fully sure...
I will be working for The American College of National Security Leaders. (https://acnsl.net/about-acnsl) They're a national security non-governmental organization comprised of retired colonels and generals in the army. I am excited to get to know more about their place in the world and my place in their organization! A lot of it is online work, so I will be writing to you from many obscure hangouts throughout the DC area as I explore and get my work done.
I am an intern through the Hinckley Institute of Politics through The U. I'll be living with about 49 other interns from Utah, and we will be hosting many guest speakers this summer.
I am, truly, very excited to have you following these adventures. I will be in DC short of the second week of May!
~ Sunny Joy
Here are some pictures from college so far:
