Firstly, apologies for only getting to this closing blog now. I have just arrived back in Glasgow today after Matt and I travelled down the eastern coast of the US for a week after our placements finished with Liberty. We took in the sights of Washington DC - my highlight being a visit to the Smithsonian Air & Space museum (where I won a paper aeroplane contest no less). As well as trip down to Miami where we partook in some sunbathing on Miami Beach and some alligator spotting in the Everglades. As Will Smith once said 'South Beach, Bringing the Heat' – I have to concur with the Fresh Prince on this one.
This summer in Boston with Liberty Mutual will stay with me forever. I don’t think there could have been a better way to spend it – I got to work in a challenging and rewarding internship position with fantastic people for an amazing company. As well, I was able to experience a new city and country, make new friends, do some travelling, and generally have an awesome time. The best way I can describe my Saltire Foundation experience comes from my new found appreciation of American colloquialisms - this summer has been ‘ballin’.
Some of my highlights –
- My project and presentation – all the hard work paid off and my contribution to the company was meaningful and hopefully long lasting. I got a real buzz after presenting in what was a high-pressure and important context
- My colleagues – Carla, Kelle, and Mercedes were brilliant throughout. Thanks guys
- Red Sox v Yankees – bad result but I’m now hooked on the sport and on the Sox. Pedroia for MVP anyone?
- Coldplay gig – best album of 2008? Sounds even better live. Plus I had better seats that Gwyneth Paltrow don’t you know
- New England Patriots match – I’m still not certain of the rules but it was a great experience and the Liberty box wasn’t bad either
- Radiohead gig – possibly the best live performance of my life. Good way to celebrate Matt’s bday, although Mansfield is tricky place to get out of
- Morning ‘T’ rides over the Charles river – despite the congestion and lack of seats, the view it offers of Boston is something I am really going to miss
- American food/drink – I am going to have to enquire about the availability of Gatorade over here. Also bagels and cream cheese is definitely going on my shopping list now
- My fellow SF Bostonians – Matt, Jemma & Chris. Was fun out there with you guys
Lastly, I want to say a massive thanks to Helen Sayles, and everyone at the Saltire Foundation for giving me the chance to experience all of this. It was a blast.
Peace out
Graeme









