Chasing Sunsets and Success: My Epic Summer 2024 Recap

Did you miss me? Cause I missed you! Let’s get cozy and catch up, shall we? With classes kicking off today, it’s the perfect moment to recap my epic summer adventures!

The Great Road Trip Kickoff

My summer exploded into action with a three-day road trip to Washington state for my internship at Boeing. It all began with a solo ride from sunny San Diego to LAX, where I scooped up my dad for our father-daughter adventure. Our first stop was the charming little town of Meadow Vista, home to my aunt. We arrived late, but it was nice reconnecting after so long without seeing each other. The next morning, we zoomed around the neighborhood in a golf cart, admiring the gorgeous houses and the local golf course. 

Next up was Bend, Oregon – but not without a pit stop to Crater Lake. And let me tell you, this place is Mother Nature’s masterpiece. The water’s reflection was so stunning, it made my phone look like it was on a permanent filter. Seriously, you have to see it to believe it! 

Bend welcomed us with a riverside dinner (or was it a stream? Who’s counting when it’s so picturesque?) and a charming downtown that felt like stepping back in time. Cozy vibes all around!

On our final leg, we arrived in Seattle, staying at the fabulous Edgewater Hotel. I dove headfirst into exploring Pike Place Market, gazing in awe (or was it disgust?) at the infamous gum wall, and indulged in an insane seafood feast. Then, it was time to settle into my new place at Edmonds College and kickstart my internship! 

Soaring High at Boeing

My time at Boeing was nothing short of extraordinary. The culture is absolutely phenomenal there. After taking classes at UCSD on workplace dynamics, I was eager to observe how colleagues interact. At Boeing, it’s all about support and camaraderie, especially for us interns. Networking was the name of the game! I had informational interviews nearly every day, leaving each one inspired and motivated to make a mark. 

Of course, I tackled some solid projects too. I made a few spreadsheets that enhance workflow and I even got to dive into the nitty-gritty of 777 aircraft components, attending meetings with suppliers and reporting to the Fleet Chief Office. Oh, and did I mention my first business trip? I got to spend a week in Seal Beach meeting with suppliers and attending important meetings with the Fleet Chief Office. It was such an impactful and unique experience. 

When I wasn’t immersed in Boeing life, I explored Seattle and its surroundings. I ventured to Vancouver, discovered Leavenworth, and checked out Capitol Hill, Lake Union, and Bellevue. I also spent a lot of time exploring downtown Edmonds because I lived so close and what a cute little town it was! 

The Grad School Adventure Begins

Right after returning to San Diego from Seattle, I jumped straight into grad school prep classes. Welcome to “Math Camp” – an exhilarating two weeks of calculus, followed by four weeks of Economics and Quantitative Methods. Luckily I haven’t forgotten all of my math skills. I even scored a 100% in calculus (yes, that’s a humble brag). The faculty here are incredible, showering us with support and guidance. I can’t wait to dive deeper into this program! 

Beach Bliss in Mexico

Amidst all the Math Camp excitement, I snuck away for a weekend in Manzanillo, Mexico to hang out with my best friend, Mimi, and her family. The hidden gem of a beach town was refreshingly low-key, and we spent our days having delicious meals, soaking up the sun, and dancing the night away at beach clubs. Pure bliss! 

A Wedding Weekend to Remember in New York

After finals wrapped up, I jetted off to Philadelphia and then drove to upstate New York for a close family friend’s wedding – where my brother rocked the role of best man! The entire weekend was a whirlwind of love, laughter, and breathtaking hikes (both because of the views and because it was tiring). Plus, we enjoyed charming Woodstock before heading back to New Jersey. 

Finally, I squeezed in a few relaxing days back home, catching up with friends, visiting Princeton and New Town with my mom, and soaking up quality time with my dog. Just the recharge I needed before diving into a new school year! 

Whew, I’m tired. Somehow all of this only spanned three months although it seems like it should have been much longer. But what a summer filled with adventures, learning, and connecting. Here’s to new beginnings and exciting challenges ahead! 

Sending virtual hugs and high-fives,

Chlo

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