By Hanying Jiang

This summer, I’m working as the program coordinator for the amazing Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP). My office space is located right above the U-Store … in a windowless interview conference room.

It’s not much to look at, but it’s quite cozy. Lydia, my co-worker, and I have grown to appreciate our small space. I work on my laptop, making (what feels like) a million spreadsheets that track the progression of the program planning. In addition, I get to read weekly assignment responses from 38 brilliant high schoolers. They respond to two questions every week regarding five articles about current events and regarding one long-form investigative report in our Required Reading Packet. Most recently, we just finished providing feedback on our students’ personal statement drafts! Even though it’s not a super active job, I thoroughly enjoy the work. I’ve also definitely learned how to write better emails.

In my free time, I also enjoy exploring Princeton and taking hikes! Here’s a map of Baldpate Mountain!

I’ve also started cooking a lot. A friend and I meal prep twice a week and that takes a couple hours out of my day. It’s quite relaxing actually.

And then, I like to crawl into bed and enjoy a chapter of a book. Then, I crash.

My days aren’t super exciting or photogenic, but it’s quite nice to have a set of routine during the summer.