Wow, what a whirlwind of a last two weeks! When I last posted on this blog over two weeks ago, I thought I would have ample opportunity to sit down and write one final post before I left Chicago. Not only have I spent 5 days in New York since then, I am already back in my student digs in Birmingham ready to begin my final year! I guess, actually, a 'whirlwind' perfectly describes my entire internship experience and it is fitting that I didn't have a spare minute in my final week to write about it. I even worked at the Residence on the last Friday night, which left me with just a couple of hours on Saturday to pack.
So, diary in hand, here I am reminiscing about my last four days at the Consulate! Following Labor Day, I went on a visit with our Vice Consul of Innovation and Economics to the University of Illinois Campus in 'Champagne' (not as glamorous as it sounds). In fact, Champagne is pretty rural- our two hour drive consisted of corn fields and not a whole lot else. The campus itself, however, was amazing. We were taken on a tour of their new research park, went inside Blue Waters supercomputer and even watched a 3D reconstruction of hurricane Katrina. It was a very cool place and we had many interesting meetings with very knowledgeable professors. When we eventually got back to Chicago at around 7pm, we went for tapas with some colleagues and onto a bar in Wrigleyville. 8am-1am days are far more fun than 9-5, but don't leave much time for blogging! ;)
My last couple of days consisted of wrapping up my final pieces of work and internal wash-up meetings with the Consul General and other members of staff. I was able to submit my up to date Midwest Swing States report, I only wish I could have stayed in America to see how my predictions turned out!
We marked the end of my internship with a couple of lovely get togethers, which included an incredible meal at a restaurant called Sable (if you're ever in Chicago, you must go!) and a little gathering in one of our conference rooms in the Consulate, complete with beer and a speech by the Deputy Consul General. I couldn't believe I would be leaving Chicago at the weekend, I felt like I was leaving home! I guess this really is tribute to the staff at the British Consulate and how welcome they made me feel from day one.
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| Last Night in Chicago |
When I finally left Chicago, I did have something rather exciting to look forward to, which took the edge off leaving somewhat! I flew to New York to meet my parents for a few days 'down time' before starting my final year at University. We had a wonderful time there and it was a fabulous end to the summer of a lifetime!
Thanks so much for reading my blog throughout my time in Chicago, I have very much enjoyed having my own little place to reflect on all the experiences I have had this summer. After such an incredible, life changing internship experience, I am now faced with the minor task of finishing my degree and graduating next summer. I know that I will take the skills, experiences and friends made in Chicago with me through my life and my time there will undoubtedly help me in my next step, wherever that may take me! Onwards and Upwards, I hope!
Love, Claire x
Happy Labor Day!!
Today has been spent not at work, but brunching in Ravenswood, riding the El around Chicago and swimming in the lake! It was supposed to rain this weekend but, luckily, we managed to avoid it! I have very much enjoyed my first long weekend in Chicago, complete with an early finish at work on Friday and a holiday weekend BBQ. I am totally refreshed and happy to get back to work tomorrow!
I have to tell you about my visit to Cook County jail last week with work. Cook County is the biggest jail in the US and houses around 10,000 prisoners. It once housed Al-Capone! Now, I have seen prisons on TV and I knew pretty much what to expect, but nothing can really prepare you for stepping foot in one for the first time. We were given a tour of the different departments and talked through the processes that take place when prisoners arrive. We met with sheriffs and guards and spoke a little about the demographics of the prison and the protocols in place should foreign nationals be arrested. We saw real life prisoners, both male and female, and really got a feel for the crazy living conditions in US jails. Some prisoners are in their cells 23 hours a day. Even just spending a couple of hours there, it is amazing how quickly you become desensitised to the conditions. When I first arrived, I was pretty shocked, but you quickly adjust and accept that this is how the US justice system works. I am not convinced of its effectiveness, but the whole experience was still incredibly eye opening and to see it first hand was an amazing opportunity. Perhaps the first experience I have had in Chicago that I wouldn't jump at the chance to do again, but I am so glad I did it all the same!
Other than the County Cook visit, work-wise this past week has been the most relaxed so far. With the holiday weekend looming, I spent much of the week finishing off some reports, doing research ahead of a couple of visits, responding to emails and making calls. Even quieter weeks are still so insightful and interesting for me, as these are tasks and skills I can really take back to university with me and transfer to future roles. On Thursday we finished work at lunch time to celebrate UKTI surpassing their targets. We had a picnic and then spent the afternoon at the beach- it was awesome and so good to hang out with everyone from the office outside of work.
The best thing about a quiet week at work is you still have plenty of energy to explore Chicago at night! I have done some shopping, visited another roof bar, been to a couple of clubs, caught up with Alumni Buddies and generally had A LOT of fun. The night life here is actually pretty great and I am enjoying having the time to experience it properly! I guess I have been having too much fun to take many photos this week, sorry! I will be sure to snap away during my last week.
So, 4 more days at work, 5 more days in Chicago! It has officially become my favourite city in the world and I will be incredibly sad to leave. For now, I will enjoy every last second of my last week and take lots of photos for my final blog post!
