Freshman Diaries: The Georgetown Bubble

Location was a crucial factor in my college decision. After all, what could be better than our very own D.C.? The hub of politics, style, culture, history and urban lifestyle; the heart of America! Coming from suburban Connecticut I was excited to be immersed in such a renowned metropolis. In a word I wanted to be cosmopolitan. I concocted this image of myself venturing around the different neighborhoods with a cup of coffee in one hand and an intellectual book in the other, maybe having some casual run-ins with the President…or at least a senator.

Well, needless to say that didn’t happen. In fact, in the duration of my first semester I only made it into downtown D.C. twice. Pathetic right? I’m receiving an education at Georgetown University with this incredible opportunity to experience the best of D.C. literally at my fingertips. Yet, I’ve discovered that it is SO easy to become lazy and stay in the comfortable Georgetown bubble.

I must admit that this bubble is also one of the things that I love most about Georgetown. It is the perfect balance of having a concentrated campus community while living in an active, urban environment. Everything I could ever possibly need or want is located within a mile radius of my dorm room. That being said, Georgetown is only a small area of D.C.

So I made it my New Years resolution to make more of an effort to explore D.C. and so far, it has been worth it! I have successfully gone on a few fun D.C. excursions within the first few weeks of second semester.

One key thing to note, however, before embarking on these trips is the importance of learning the ins and outs of transportation. I, for one, was completely uneducated about the whole Metro system. Confession: I thought it was a bus service. Turns out it’s a massive underground subway. Who knew? Apparently everyone. #oops

So, I wasn’t exactly prepared for my first Metro experience. It’s not too intimidating. That is once you get past the terrifying endless escalator ride, which seems like it’s plunging down into an underground abyss of darkness. (Or maybe that’s just the influence of my escalator phobia…) FYI there is proper escalator etiquette. Apparently it’s not socially acceptable to stand in the middle grasping both railings for dear life, while others are sprinting (risking serious injury I might add) down to catch trains.

Once you get on the train either find a seat or grab hold onto a pole. My first time I thought I could be one of those people who didn’t need any support. I casually crossed my arms and leaned against the pole, confident in my ability to stay upright. Poor decision. Take it from me, tumbling into stranger’s laps because you lost your balance from the lurching can get pretty awkward. I should know. 

You also need to know where you’re going, which would seem obvious, but with the switching of the different color-coded lines it all blurs together. My suggestion is to study up before you get there so you’re not staring in deep concentration at the map like a tourist. Yes, I’m that girl. Luckily for us newbies to the Metro system, at least for basketball games just follow the herd of gray shirts and you’ll eventually find your way back to campus. Otherwise it’s easy once you get the hang of it. Or so I’ve heard.

Apart from the technicalities of transportation, it’s easy to capitalize on the opportunity to experience D.C. Can’t think of anything to do? Here are five suggestions for a guaranteed fun time in D.C.!
 

1. Tour the monuments at night
2. Dine in DuPont
3. Go skating at the National Gallery
4. Visit the Smithsonian
5. See a performance at the Kennedy Center

 
So go forth and discover all the best that D.C. has to offer. After all, we are Georgetown and D.C. is our playground.
 
XOXO,
Hoya Saxa
 
Georgetown Freshman Survival Tip #4: Break out of the bubble! D.C. is an amazing city so make sure to take advantage of it while you can. Note that taking in the view of D.C. from a Village A rooftop does not count! Step out of your comfort zone. I promise it will be well worth it.