Week Eight: Winding Down, Bundling Up, and Holding On

Hi again!

It’s hard to believe we’re already in Week 8, just a few more weeks left in this internship, and I’m definitely feeling the bittersweet shift as things start winding down. On one hand I love Sweden and the nature and city, but there are things I have been missing about the States.

At work, my supervisor has asked me to start wrapping up the projects I’ve been working on and drafting notes for the next group of interns who’ll be taking over when we leave, who will arrive in late August. It’s been one of those “wow, time really flew by” moments. I’ve been finishing up my brief on Singapore’s recent election and adding the final touches to the ever-growing toolkit. (Seriously, every time I think we’ve compiled all the election resources, another batch appears like magic. I’m convinced it’s alive at this point.)

We did have a sad moment last week, one of our fellow interns finished her program and had to head back to school. It was tough to say goodbye, but we had a lovely send-off after work to celebrate her time here. It’s been such a great group, and it’s strange to think we’ll all be heading off in different directions soon.

On the weather front, Stockholm seems to have remembered it’s in Scandinavia. After several weeks of summer heat, it’s cooled down to the mid-60s (Fahrenheit, of course. If it were Celsius, we’d be in serious trouble). It’s been a little rainy, a little gray, but honestly, I’m loving it. The cooler weather has made everything feel cozier and calmer, and it’s been perfect for long walks and runs around the city as I try to soak up every last bit of Sweden before heading home.

I’ll keep exploring and making the most of these last few weeks. I’ll make sure to keep you all updated along the way!