Windy City's Unexpected Summer Wonders
In the heart of downtown Chicago, nestled between the bustling cityscape and the serene waters of Lake Michigan, lies a body of water that left me utterly amazed - a vibrant blue expanse dividing the city from the lake. This unexpected sight was just one of the many surprises that Chicago had in store for me during my 10-week internship.
Chicago, a city that stands out to first-time visitors for its stunning blend of iconic architecture, vibrant public art, and diverse cultural experiences, proved to be a multifaceted destination that surpassed my initial expectations. From the interactive and famous sculpture "Cloud Gate" ("The Bean") in Millennium Park, to the city's impressive riverwalk lined with rotating public art displays, and an unexpected mix of high-end shopping on the Magnificent Mile alongside hip, local neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Pilsen that host monthly art walks and flea markets, Chicago offered a unique and dynamic urban experience.
One of the key features that make Chicago unique is its architectural richness. As the birthplace of the modern skyscraper, visitors can experience this through river architecture tours and landmarks such as the John Hancock Center and the Wrigley Building. Another surprising aspect of the city is its public art and interactive spaces. Millennium Park offers more than greenery—it hosts famous sculptures, interactive fountains, and year-round cultural events free to the public, creating a dynamic urban retreat in the heart of downtown.
Beyond the tourist hubs, neighborhoods like Pilsen offer vibrant art scenes with monthly "First Friday" art walks where visitors mingle with local artists in galleries and studios. Similarly, markets like the Vintage Garage provide unique vintage shopping experiences not typical for big cities. Chicago often surprises visitors with extensive free cultural programming such as live jazz festivals, massive architecture exhibitions like the Chicago Architecture Biennial, and large-scale public art projects displayed on buildings along the riverwalk.
Exploring these diverse attractions is made convenient by the city’s well-developed CTA “L” train system and bus network. The contrasts between world-class museums and grassroots cultural events, between sleek urban spaces and lively, quirky neighborhoods, create a multifaceted experience that surprises many first-time visitors with the depth and accessibility of Chicago’s offerings.
Amidst this whirlwind of new experiences, I was also surprised by the casual dress code at my internship. T-shirts, shorts, and flip-flops were common, a stark contrast to the formal attire I had anticipated. Despite the initial nerves, I felt surprisingly calm about spending 10 weeks in a whole new city by myself.
Living in Chicago has been an adventure. I've had to learn two programming languages, teach myself several different types of application software, and develop the courage to ask a ton of questions in my work environment. Initially, I pictured Chicago as a smaller version of New York City, but it has proven to be a city with its own unique charm and character.
One of the most unexpected surprises has been the obnoxiously loud over-ground train that wakes me up every morning. However, this has been balanced by the incredible and affordable food available in Chicago, including the famous deep-dish pizza. Despite dealing with a lot of negative results in my work, the relaxed work environment keeps me focused on completing each task despite possible setbacks.
In my first few months at Princeton, I was terrified of leaving my house for any longer than a week. But here in Chicago, I've learned to embrace the city's vibrant energy and the opportunities it presents. Chicago, with its surprising blend of the familiar and the unexpected, has become a home away from home.
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