Scandal

Washington, D.C.—As a self-professed “Scandal” fanatic currently interning in D.C., I can’t help but try and connect my experiences in the nation’s capital to those of Olivia Pope (the character played by Kerry Washington who solves political controversies). But Olivia Pope tackles high-profile government scandals, whereas I’ve just been sitting in a cubicle all day making edits to a website. Living and interning in D.C., however, is not without a few small-scale scandals of its own. Here are some of the ones I’ve encountered over the past two weeks.

Scandal #1: Tanning on the National Mall

The problem: Sitting inside an office all day offers an excellent escape from the D.C. heat. At the same time, it also ensures that you remain as pasty as you were during the brutal Boston winters.

The solution: Tan on the National Mall. You will get some uncomfortable stares from hundreds of tourists, but take comfort in the fact that people (a.k.a. me) have done it before.

The verdict: Participate in this scandal at your own risk.

Scandal #2: Being “That Intern”

The problem: Where do I begin with this one? “That Intern” is the person at work who thinks they are a full-time employee. They interrupt a conversation with other interns by saying, “Excuse me, I have a potential contact on the phone. I have to take this call”, and then proceed to fire off phrases like “Well, all of us at (insert company name here) are committed to blah blah blah”. Dude. I just can’t.

The solution: The best way to solve this problem is to avoid “that intern” whenever possible. More importantly, avoid being him or her.

The verdict: Steer clear of this scandal. No one wants to be the subject of employee (er, intern) gossip.

Scandal #3: Inter(n)-Office Dating

The problem: Olivia Pope would actually know all about this one (affair with the President of the United States, anyone?). Apparently most companies aren’t too happy about flirtation in the workplace.

The solution: Keep it professional, guys. We all know that single interns in a big city are full of raging hormones and sexual tension, but for the love of God at least save it for the bar after work. Besides, in a city full of powerful people, chances are you can aim higher than the intern in the adjacent cubicle.

The verdict: Avoid this scandal and keep it in your pants until the weekend.

More scandals to come…

xoxo from Washington