The last year has brought many life changes, both personally and professionally. My mom unexpectedly passed away in February 2023, and I took a few weeks off from my graduate studies to travel home and be with family. Even so, in May I graduated on time from Johns Hopkins SAIS with a Master of Arts in International Relations. With no solid plan for after graduation, I moved back to the island while I waited to hear from job applications. For those familiar with Edgartown Seafood, you'll be interested to know that the business was purchased by three of my best friends in March 2023, who contacted me and asked if I would assist them with their bookkeeping. With zero bookkeeping skills but lots of ambition, I took on this project and continue to hold this position. If you're ever in need of great seafood, go say hi to my friends (and now bosses) Andy, Jimmy, and Crockett at Edgartown Seafood! In May I accepted a position at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, DC, where I work as a Program Coordinator in the Mexico Institute. The Mexico Institute seeks to increase understanding, communication, and cooperation between the United States and Mexico through the active discussion of issues relevant to both countries. Mexico and the United States will both hold presidential elections this year, and the two main candidates in Mexico are women, so there is a lot of interesting and meaningful work to be done. As part of the position, I enjoy frequent trips to Mexico and the opportunity to continue practicing Spanish. I hope everyone had a happy and healthy year!