As all current college students know, a tour can make or break the decision whether or not to apply to a school. As President of Blue & Gray Tour Guides, it’s Adaire Carey’s (COL ’14) job to make sure all tours run smoothly. Blue & Gray has a major presence on campus, and although the application process has recently changed, prospective tour guides used to line up in the early hours to get one of the coveted interviews given to the first hundred applicants and any additional ones they felt were exceptional. Part of the reason being a tour guide is so sought after is because students feel the need to share their love for Georgetown and tell their story of why it’s such a great place- something Adaire definitely attested to when she spoke with Her Campus about her Georgetown experience thus far.
When did you first become involved with Blue & Gray?
Being a tour guide was the number one thing I was interested in joining when I came to Georgetown, so I joined fall of my freshmen year.
How did you make your way to president?
After becoming a full-fledged guide I became a mentor. Then last year, I held the position of Grid Coordinator. Essentially, I was in charge of sending A LOT of emails covering each tour. Finally, I was very honored to be selected as president.
What’s your favorite thing about being a tour guide? Your least favorite thing?
My favorite part about being a tour guide is the amazing ability we have to give back to Georgetown. I am so lucky to be a student at Georgetown, and now it’s my chance to show prospective students and parents how magical of a place this school can be. In a sense we are shaping the future class of Hoyas, and I want to make sure their first encounter with our school is the best it can be. My least favorite part would have to be giving a tour in the rain. No one wants to be there, I even had a group let me walk into a parked car once. But as my mom always told me, “If you can love a school in the rain, imagine how much you will love it when it’s sunny” (the line works occasionally).
What’s the most interesting fact you tell prospective students on tours?
My favorite fact, which was given to me by Dean Cloke, is that the cannons outside of Healy Hall were originally on Spanish Armada ships. During the pirating days in the Atlantic Ocean they were taken over by the British, who then recycled them and placed them on the Ark and the Dove, which were the two ships the original Maryland colonists took to the United States. They are also the only two pieces of artillery that face towards the White House.
What else are you involved with on campus?
I have been involved in New Student Orientation for the past three years, and was fortunate enough to be a captain this year. I am also a member of the Class of 2014 Fund and GAAP.
Lightning Round
Favorite restaurant in DC: Neyla, because it is a Blue & Gray family tradition
Dream vacation: I would love to go to the Olympics
Dinner with anyone, dead or alive: I am currently writing a thesis involving JFK so I would love a little help on my research, and if he was too busy, Prince William and Kate are a very close second
Favorite thing to do in Georgetown: Shopping with my roommates — M St. and Wisconsin just have everything!
Favorite movie: Sweet Home Alabama