Being an Indiana girl means that during the summer, you roll down your windows and take the back roads. It's a time to walk corn fields and go to bonfires, but sometimes college means stepping out of your comfort zone. This summer, instead of spending my time how I usually do, I am hopping on and off of DC Metro trains. I had a lot of observations during my first week riding the metro as an intern in the Capitol.

1. "Doors will open on the left" doesn't always mean your left.

2. There are other interns. Everywhere.

3. The Foggy Bottom stop will make you think of London. Please mind the gap.

4. Most of the intercom systems are useless.

5. People will fall asleep, and you will be anxious for them.

6. People only read newspapers in the morning.

7. Eye contact and conversation is frowned upon.

8. You'll probably lose cell service in the middle of your favorite song.

9. The statement, "train will be moving shortly," is obsolete. Obviously, a train is still ahead us.

10. After riding a bunch of old trains, the first new metro car you experience will be incredible. You can actually understand the announcements.

11. The doors do not operate like elevator doors. Don't even try.

12. Wearing dresses and gym shoes is completely acceptable.

13. People always forget when they have their umbrella. Either they leave it behind, or they smack you with it as they sit down.

14. You may not go through security, but they are watching.

15. You're not supposed to enjoy your lunch... or your coffee.

16. You will want to help the stranded and confused family looking at the map, but you're too new to be that helpful.

17. If the train stops for too long, it will likely get a little toasty.

18. It will take a few days to find your footing. Maybe even weeks.

19. You won't want to be anywhere near downtown DC during peak hours.

20. Your Metro money will disappear quickly. Long commutes and the need to explore leads to empty pockets and empty Metro cards.

21. It can be windy in the tunnels. And hot. And then cold.

22. Don't be alarmed by loud noises. It's just part of underground travel, I guess.

23. Also, the sun seems a lot brighter when you have been underground for multiple stops.

24. There is a good chance that if you are on your phone, someone is snooping. The window reflections are your enemy.

25. You will encounter all types of people. Don't judge them.

26. Business suits, Bluetooth and ties, oh my!

27. Just like other forms of transportation, you will experience good and bad drivers.

28. Move to the right, or get out of the way.

29. I will never understand the complexity and fluidity of underground transit.

So, the DC Metro system has is perks and pitfalls. I am grateful for the opportunity to spend my summer in the nation's capital, even if it means having to navigate hectic transportation.