Ms. Brown Goes to Washington

So, it's been a while. I have been busy sweltering in the Maryland/DC heat for the past two and a half weeks. It's been quite an adventure thus far- I bonded almost instantly with my NSLC (that's National Student Leadership Conference for those of you not in the know) staff here at the University of Maryland. It's been a while since I had such a diverse group of people around me and I am truly thriving off the energy and knowledge I gain everyday. From sea to shining sea, we represent a myriad of cultures and states; childhoods are compared, along with college experiences; I've been asked about the guys I like to date, what it's like to grow up in Florida, what my favorite dishes are, and why I wear my hair wrapped in "that thing" at night. The genuine curiosity and willingness to learn about each other has helped teach me an important lesson about being my self, my whole self, no matter the circumstances. I don't have to apologize for who I am or what I believe. However, I also have to be willing to accept that each individual has the right to their opinions, as well. Most of the time, we agree to disagree. The keyword is 'agree'. And then, we keep it moving.

In other exciting news, I saw a kid get arrested when I was waiting for the bus on Friday. Yes, Celeste- who has never even stepped foot on a college campus shuttle, found her way to New Carrollton Maryland after a bus ride on the F6 and a quick 2 block walk. It was pretty liberating; the only thing I worried about was how I would know when to pull the yellow cord to let the bus driver know I was ready to get off.

I am getting quite acclimated to this bare-bones lifestyle. I have a bed, a dresser, enough hangers for the few clothes I brought, and a desk I only use to keep my clipboard and backpack at night. I have time to read, focus on improving the weaknesses in my personality, being a role model for my students, and making lasting relationships with these incredible people I've had the opportunity to meet.

Of course, we always have time for chicken wings and late night zumba classes (more often wings than zumba..hopefully all the walking on campus and midday Maryland sun will keep me svelte for the winter when I move to DC permanently (and that's a whole 'nother blog).

Til then folks- stay cool! (literally, it's gonna be over 100 tomorrow.)