My time in DC has been very unique. The experience this fall at the Washington Community Scholars’ Center is likely the most challenging and different WCSC term in the program’s history. Most significantly, there are many restrictions and rules that we have to follow to limit our exposure to COVID-19. The phrase, “Make the best out of whatever situation you are in” applies very well to my time here. 

The 2020 election may be the most important election of our lifetime. As I write this, it is two days until the election. By the time you are reading this article we will have elected a new president or the same president. As you walk and drive down the streets in DC, you see so many election props and signage. You also see a lot of businesses boarding up their establishments like a category 5 hurricane is about to come through here. They are expecting a lot of protest here, and I pray that things do not get like a category 5 hurricane.  

While there have been many challenges, I would say that my internship is the highlight of the semester. I am interning at Voices For A Second Chance (VSC), a non-profit organization that assists citizens returning to society from prison as they integrate back into the community. These citizens can be incarcerated for any amount of time to receive our help. I have learned so much from my supervisors about DC and the prison system. You would be surprised at how much help returning citizens need to find housing, food, COVID supplies, and clothing; and to obtain important documents, mental health counseling, substance abuse counseling, and other services. Being an intern at VSC made me realize how much social workers really do for their clients. They play really important roles in society, and I feel like they do not get the recognition they deserve.