USA: Hope Karnopp (“We’re Not in Madison Anymore” Moment)

March 10, 2023

One of the most surprising parts of D.C. is the city’s vast public transportation system. While Madison has buses that serve the campus and surrounding areas, the bus network in D.C. is much more wide-reaching. Most people in D.C. don’t have a car but are still able to use buses or the Metro to get to shopping malls, nature spots and restaurants.

Escalators move down between two train platforms, of which there is a train on the right track. The whole structure is enclosed by a large concrete dome with squares cut out. — This is the Eastern Market Metro station that we often use to get to the National Mall area. Commuters expect you to stand on the right side and walk on the left side of the escalators.

I was somewhat familiar with the Metro in D.C., but I didn’t realize how far it can take you. Though the stations are somewhat far apart, the trains run frequently and quickly. Walking 20 minutes to get to a station is common, but hopping on one of the routes can take you to Maryland or Virginia within a matter of minutes.

Navigating the public transportation system was challenging at first. It’s helpful to study the Metro map and understand what lines travel north, south, east or west — it can be confusing to know what direction to go once you’re in the train station. The bus schedules are less reliable, and I’m learning that I should get to those stops ahead of time.

The Metro system carries its own norms that our cohort is still learning. We were warned by multiple alumni to stand on the right side of the station escalators and walk on the left. It’s common to see business professionals sprint to catch the train to work in the morning. Despite the sometimes chaotic and confusing nature of public transportation here, the efficiency of the Metro is one of the best parts about D.C.

Hope smiles wearing an orange sweater in front of a blurred tree.

Hope Karnopp

Hometown: Green Bay, Wisconsin

Major: Journalism

Program: UW Wisconsin in Washington, DC Internship Program

I chose this program to gain exposure to the professional media landscape in D.C. I am excited to work for a large news company and gain new production and research skills. I hope that being close to Capitol Hill, the White House, the Supreme Court and executive agencies will provide new reporting opportunities and learning experiences. I also hope to network with professionals in the news industry while in D.C. Seeing the cherry blossoms in spring is a plus, too!