My first thought when I was asked to write a "Letter from Tripod" was to share with the world what it's like to be an intern here at Tripod. But for fear of it turning into a cheesy, college-entrance-like essay, I nixed that idea. Instead, I will indulge you with a short but sweet account of my summer experiences. I apologize in advance for the sentimental factor.

I've been far from home this summer. I came to Williamstown from St. Louis, MO, just a few short days after finishing my sophomore year finals in May. My friends thought I was absolutely insane when I told them in March that I might be spending the summer in rural Massachusetts. As the time approached for me to leave, I started to believe they were right! What was I thinking? Leaving my family, my friends, my familiar surroundings, to spend my summer break in an isolated town where I knew not a single person. Ultimately, my ambition gave me just the little push I needed.

In the weeks that followed, I managed to survive mom-and-dad withdrawal, fall madly in love with Williamstown, try sushi (I'm a picky eater), and become the most sought-after cat sitter in town. Now, as my days left here dwindle into the single digits, I must admit that rural Massachusetts has gotten under my skin. Yes, it's nestled so tightly in the Berkshire Mountains that you have to drive into the next town for cell-phone reception. It's also true that the Williamstown nightlife is far from the raging, party scene I'm used to. (There are more bars in my college town than there are people in Williamstown.) But, life just won't be the same without warm, starry nights on the deck at Mezze, doughy bagels from Hot Tomatoes, celebrity sightings on Spring Street, or late-night spades games. And above everything else, to quote my other half (and spades partner) Sarah, "The best thing about Williamstown is the wicked-cool people."

So, as you can see, going home is, at best, a bittersweet affair. It won't be easy to return to the semi-adult world that is my college career, from the very-adult world I was introduced to this summer. I've learned three things: This 20-year-old is damn brave; it is possible to survive without a car (with the help of your friends); and the East Coast is a pretty, permanent picture in my not-so-distant future.

— Jessica