This statement has undoubtedly been overused, but I can’t help but say it: DukeEngage in Seattle has been an incredible experience. I became close to a group of students that I would probably not have had the opportunity to meet otherwise. I met Vera, who made me fall in love with bok choy, bubble tea, and mochi. I worked at Year Up with an incredible group of people who made me feel like family (shout out to Dannielle, Landon, Janice, and Ali!). I saw Gasworks and Lake Washington at night, both beautiful and breathtaking. Thanks to our alumni partners, I had a chance to hike Mount Si and to go boating on Lake Union. I fell in love with Macrina’s coffee and pastries (again, thanks Dannielle, Landon, Janice, and Ali!), Morsel’s biscuits (Vera!), and Elleno’s yogurt. I’ve done more Barre classes in Seattle than ever in my life, and ran longer on the Burke-Gilman trail than I’ve ever managed to run before. Writing this blog and creating this list is increasing those sentimental feelings that I’m sure are hitting all of us as we start saying our goodbyes and packing our bags. We’re all realizing that summer has come to a close. However, I’m sure that I can speak for all of us when I say that our memories and experiences here will be unforgettable, and that we’ll be taking many, many different things back with us to Duke.
Barbara Blachut
Duke Student '15
Duke Student '15