Blog Post #1: First Impressions

 When I first began my internship at the Institute of Medicine (IOM) in Washington DC on May 6^th, it felt like I was doing something big. The Keck Center, which houses the IOM along with the other branches of the National Academy of Sciences, is located in the heart of the city just two blocks away from the Judiciary Square metro stop. Walking to work the first week I already began to feel more corporate and professional seeing lawyers, businessmen and other suit-and-tie professionals on the street. Many of the IOM staff dress the same way, so I expected a very professional atmosphere.

Once at work, I quickly realized that the IOM projected an image of bureaucracy and professionalism while still maintaining a relatively casual environment. My superiors who showed me around the office and gave me assignments during my first few days on the job seemed comfortable chatting with anyone in the Health Science Policy (HSP) division, and almost everyone left their office doors open (even after leaving for the day—clearly lots of trust!). I was even invited to eat lunch with some of the senior staff. At the same time, the professional elements also had their place. I had to get a badge to gain access to the building, and I was given my own desk space (a very pleasant surprise) with a phone and desktop computer. I even discovered that I have my own National Academies email account for the duration of my internship.

While everyone in HSP seemed friendly and comfortable talking, email has proven to be a major source of communication—even when the person I’m emailing is sitting down the hall from me. It may seem silly, but in a world often occupied by conference calls and multitasking, email has proven to be the best source of communication with my supervisors and colleagues.