May 9 will signify the end of my undergraduate career at the University and the beginning of life in a scary new world marked by recession and unemployment.

My last semester could have been spent in Athens savoring the college lifestyle and the final days without a 9 to 5, but I chose instead to err on the side of preparedness and left my friends, family and the South behind to participate in the University’s Washington Semester Program.

My love affair with D.C. began this past summer. I had come to the District to take part in a program that involved interning at a public relations firm and taking classes at Georgetown, and as the end of the summer approached, I realized I didn’t want to leave, for a number of reasons.

There’s always something new to see or something fun (and usually free) to do. The public transportation system is clean and easy to navigate. And of course, D.C. is the political science major’s mecca.

After returning to Athens last fall, I began searching for an opportunity to make my second Hajj.

I discovered my golden ticket in the form of the University’s D.C. Semester. I was ready to take a chance on whatever program the University offered in D.C., but what I found surpassed my expectations.

The program director’s connections around the city provided a large and varied selection of internship opportunities. Most of the students in the program chose to intern in congressional offices, but a few of us work in agencies, think tanks or other organizations off the Hill.

Quinn Gillespie & Associates, a bipartisan lobbying firm with a number of corporate clients, is where I spend about 40 hours of my week. It’s been interesting to see what goes on at the intersection of business and government.

We are enrolled in two classes, one traditionally taught by a University political science professor. The other requires us to go to weekly seminars given by University alumni who live and work in D.C.

We’ve gained valuable insight from successful people who were once where we will be soon: entering the workforce with nothing but a University degree and a prayer.

Our housing couldn’t be in a better location. My kitchen window offers a picturesque view of the Supreme Court building, which is across the street, and the Capitol dome, only two blocks away, rising behind it.

Of course, the timing is absolutely ideal, as well. Although I didn’t brave the crowds and cold to attend the Inauguration, it has been interesting to witness the administration change firsthand.

You don’t have to be a liberal to appreciate the peaceful exchange of power.

I believe my experience this semester is going to provide me with the connections and know-how I need to succeed in D.C. after graduation.

There are some things I miss about Georgia, and Athens in particular.

I would kill for a sweet tea. I’m freezing to death up here. I’ve been craving a calzone from Transmet for two months. And I miss my friends.

But I know I won’t ever regret this semester for the opportunities it has already afforded me and will likely continue to provide.

Someone once told me that when D.C. begins to lose its magic – when you walk by the magnificent buildings and historic monuments without appreciating the history, culture and heroic people who have shaped what our nation has become – that it’s time to leave.

Until I reach that point, if ever, I’ll be here. If you’re looking for an opportunity to succeed, come join me.

- Susie Womick is a senior from Acworth majoring in political science.