Unexpected Blessing
by Ethan Hawkins (’22)
“During these uncertain times…” is a phrase echoed by just about every American university these days. From social gatherings to studying abroad, students everywhere are struggling to figure out what to do with themselves during this era of “the new normal.”
I was among these cohorts of students, and Wake Washington provided a much needed escape from the bleak reality that COVID has so graciously gifted us.
This program is the perfect answer to this “new normal.” Campus is operating as well as it can manage, but Wake Forest can only do so much. Dorm living, dining halls, and gyms are all nerve-wracking areas to navigate once COVID is added to the equation. Wake Washington offers a semester that is less weighed down by the constraints of this pandemic, and for that I am grateful.
I obviously have to abide by the same guidelines that other students need to follow – I need to wear a mask in public, avoid large gatherings, and of course, complete my daily SneezSafe survey. But the opportunities presented to me through this program are absolutely unmatched.
On Friday, we had the chance to visit Mount Vernon, which was George Washington’s home. The property was absolutely stunning, and we got an in-depth tour of Washington’s house and saw many originals from his time at Mount Vernon. His desk in particular was especially striking, as the documents that were drafted there have a huge impact on how I am able to live my life as an American. This trip certainly granted me a healthy dose of nationalism, and made my experience in DC that much more meaningful.
Fridays in this program are always a treat. We usually dedicate the first half of our Fridays to a number of guest speakers and Wake alumni who grant us knowledge, wisdom, and advice as we navigate through life. And “during these uncertain times,” I cannot ask for enough knowledge, wisdom, and advice. Although I do enjoy the various speakers that we meet on Fridays, visiting Mount Vernon was an excellent Friday activity.
Haleigh, Duncan, Sean, Jacob, and I reflected on our time at Wake Washington while sitting on George Washington’s back porch. We all agreed that this program was the best use of our time during this pandemic.
After we had our fill of Mount Vernon, the five of us and our Wake Washington director, Jennifer Richwine, settled down to enjoy a hearty lunch at Virtue Feed & Grain. The meal was absolutely electric, from the fried oysters to the ribs. This meal was simply another reminder that coming to Washington was the best decision I could have made.
This semester could not have gone better for me. Wake Washington offers students the unique experience of working and living in DC, and is certainly one of the better options to take with COVID added to the equation. Wake Washington has and continues to grant me great opportunities, and I feel extremely satisfied in my decision to continue my education in Washington, DC.