So you've made it into the UCDC program--congratulations! You're in for one of the most exciting, life-changing experiences of your college career. Below are various tips about everything from how to apply for internships to the best places for a night out on the town in Washington, D.C.. Quick disclaimer! Since Upshire Girl and I were students in the Summer 2012 cohort, some of our tips may not apply to the time you're going, so take everything in with a grain of salt.
I am currently gathering intel, so check back in a couple of days for a lovely list of tips and tricks for your survival in D.C. :)
The most important thing about the UCDC experience is actually getting there. As fellow college students, we understand that cost is everything. Even if your financial aid package covers everything, it's best to fly over cheap and use that extra money to explore DC. First let's talk about the airports:
Reagan National Airport (DCA)
Reagan National is the closest airport to the UCDC Center, and currently the only airport you can get to using the Metro. Southwest just opened a terminal in DCA, so there is hope for cheaper flights to this airport. The best airline to take to DCA is AirTran. Agent 024 bought a one-way ticket from AirTran for $130 from SFO to DCA.
Taking the Metro to UCDC:
Unless you have just a carry-on and a backpack, do NOT take the Metro because you will suffer. The Farragut West Metro station is indeed close-by to the Center, but being new to the area and a little jetlagged, you probably don't want to lug around a lot of luggage. If you're up for it though, buy a one-way ticket from Reagan National to Farragut West on the Blue Line. It should cost you no more than $2. When once you get off at Farragut West, walk toward Farragut Square and the Farragut North station, down 17th Street, and make a right onto Rhode Island. You'll know you're in the right area when you pass the CVS, the Sumner School, and get to the corner with the Human Rights Campaign building and Beacon Bar & Grill. The UCDC Center is on the right side next to Bataan St. with adorned with flags and the UC seal on the glass windows. Just buzz in and the security guard will let you in for registration.
Taking Super Shuttle:
This is what most people do because generally they bring a couple suitcases/bags. I believe it costs about $15/ride from DCA to the UCDC area. Book this ahead of time, and if possible, book with other people in your cohort (if you guys are arriving at the same time) to save a couple of bucks.
Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Dulles is the larger, much swankier airport in the DC area. Definitely a lot farther though, and there's currently no Metro rail that will allow you to go from the airport to the Center. You can take taxis or Super Shuttle, and we suggest taking Super Shuttle. We're not positive about the cost (don't remember!) but it's definitely not too pricey. Again, book with another cohort member for cheaper prices.
Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI)
Talked about amongst our cohort members as the cheapest airport to fly into from California, but it's the farthest from the Center. Take that how you will. Most people I know that have flown into BWI have taken Super Shuttle.
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