One Third Done!
Surprisingly, I find myself a third of the way through my internship with the American Chemistry Council (ACC), and the experience has been nothing short of transformative. From navigating complex regulatory landscapes to forging new friendships over shared meals and outdoor adventures, here’s a glimpse into this week in Washington, DC.
My internship at ACC continues to be fulfilling as I delve deeper into regulatory law. Recently, a research project I completed evolved into drafting a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. It's fascinating to see how FOIA requests play a crucial role in transparency and accountability, allowing the public access to government documents that inform policy decisions and public understanding. This experience has underscored the practical impact of my contributions to ACC’s advocacy efforts.
An additional standout moment this week was attending a briefing hosted by the Department of Homeland Security on supply chain resiliency. It was fascinating to learn about DHS’s role in safeguarding national security through economic stability, alongside representatives from major corporations like Apple, Johnson & Johnson, Pepsi, and Microsoft.
Balancing work with social engagements has been key to my DC experience. This Friday, I unwound with fellow law students over ramen and drinks in Chinatown, where we exchanged stories and laughter amidst our busy schedules. On Saturday, I challenged myself with a long bike ride from Fairfax to Annandale, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Although wildlife sightings were scarce, the journey provided a refreshing escape into nature. Plus, it was by far the longest bike ride I've undertaken this summer, lasting about 11 miles.
And fulfilling a promise made earlier, I recently played pickleball with my friend Matthew. Despite 3 losses in a row, the experience was filled with camaraderie with our opponents, followed by a relaxing coffee and catch-up session.
Looking ahead, I'm excited for the upcoming week as ACC is treating all the interns to a baseball game at Nats Park followed by a picnic! It will be a fantastic opportunity to bond outside of work and meet people outside of my immediate work sphere. Stay tuned for more updates as my summer journey unfolds!