BC senior Erica Hackett has had a globe-trotting college experience. From studying abroad in Italy as a second semester sophomore, to making another trek across the world to study in Australia as a junior, it comes as no surprise that Erica’s most recent travels landed her in our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. We sat down with Erica to discuss her summer in D
What has been a highlight to your summer?
Living in D.C. hands down. There is so much going on all the time.
Do you have a favorite memory from this summer?
One memory in particularly was an amazing day exploring the city. We started the day sightseeing around to the different memorials around D.C, and ended with dinner on the national mall and riding our bikes in the sunset.
Have you been working? What is your job/what do you do?
I’m working for Boeing doing global trade controls and export/import policy.
What did you learn over the summer?
Learning how to live with 7 roommates!
What was the hardest thing you had to do?
Live with 7 roommates! But actually, balancing lots of different social things and what do I do with my time- which is an awesome problem to have!
Did you go on vacation? Where to/what did you do?
Bermuda with my family for a weekend. Took a Friday off work-it was a great getaway.
Did you meet up with any BC friends over the summer? What did you do?
I had lunch with U of I people in my building- one in particular was Joel Hood, a former BC president who graduated in 2011. I also got to see Kiara which was so great.
Did you do anything educational over summer?
I took a class through a program called Illinois in Washington that counts for 6 credit hrs, and filled my political science minor. I took a class about how to succeed in an internship. It was a little rough at times but a good experience.
What are you most excited about for 1st semester?
Coming back from abroad, seeing everyone and catching up, starting senior year and enjoying Champaign!
Do you have a best word to describe your summer?
Active! I don’t think I’ve been bored the entire time. Second word: Happy Hour.
Did you read any new books/watch any new movies you would recommend?
Yes! As far as books: “When Breath Becomes Air” by Paul Kalanithi. It’s about a man who worked his entire life to become a neuroscience researcher, but when he was 38, he found out he had stage 4 terminal lung cancer. He wrote this book about what it means to live. Highly recommended!
Did you go to any concerts/festivals?
Taylor Swift in Chicago, National Mall PBS masters 4th of July Festival- we got to see the dress rehearsal because Boeing is a sponsor. This included Pentatonix, The Beach Boys, John Stamos, The Temptations, just to name a few.
What did you see this summer that surprised you?
I was definitely surprised by how nonpartisan DC is. Everyone is super informed- if you have a debate it’s about a certain policy issue rather than just attacking the other person’s party.
We loved hearing about Erica’s summer and are excited to have her back on campus this semester!
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