Day one of starting full-time work meant heading down to San Jose for two weeks of training. Last time I was in the city, I was there to visit friends so had a much different experience this time around. Rather than take a mini road trip to Napa for wine tasting, head to the beach for fun in the sun or go to a Flo Rida performance, I learned all about HR policies and how to complete audit procedures most efficiently (both are equally as fun, right? :)).
I stayed in downtown San Jose and have to say that for as much as I hear about the Silicon Valley area, I was surprised at how little activity there was overall. Apparently there is more going on in some of the neighboring cities which weren’t very convenient without access to a car. Of course this didn’t stop me from venturing out and I took some pretty awesome walks along the nearby Guadalupe River and even found a leftover Christmas tree display in a nearby park. A different elementary school decorated each tree! It was way too precious!
One of my friends from college grew up in San Jose, so even though she is currently living in Spain, I spent my day off with her parents, Karen and Prakash (and their dog, Bailey). Our day started with lunch before heading to Stanford where we admired all the great modern pieces at the art museum, strolled around the outdoor Rodin statues and found the most intriguing natural-material art display in the middle of a grouping of unsuspecting trees.
I have to admit that the campus truly is beautiful and can see how people dream of calling that university home. Before the day was over, Karen insisted I go and see a movie with her since she did not think our day had truly reached epic proportions yet. They not only provided me with a great Sunday, but even had me over during the week for a traditional Indian dinner that Prakash made. I feel so lucky to have such beautiful and giving people in my life!
I have to admit that the campus truly is beautiful and can see how people dream of calling that university home. Before the day was over, Karen insisted I go and see a movie with her since she did not think our day had truly reached epic proportions yet. They not only provided me with a great Sunday, but even had me over during the week for a traditional Indian dinner that Prakash made. I feel so lucky to have such beautiful and giving people in my life!
I was sad I didn’t get a chance to make it up to San Francisco (one of my favorite cities!) during my stay, but I have no doubt I will make a point of visiting my favorite red bridge in the not so distant future.
