Guest blog by Alejandro Farina Garcia
When I accepted my summer internship, I was excited, not just about the role, but also about spending the summer in the Bay Area. With over 50 Boothies interning across the region, I knew it would be a summer full of professional development, exploration, and shared experiences.
One of the highlights of the Bay Area is how easy it is to get outdoors. I hiked through the redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument, hiked in Mount Tamalpais State Park, and walked along the cliffs at Point Reyes National Seashore, where we visited the famous lighthouse. We also made a weekend trip to Yosemite National Park, where the views of waterfalls, granite cliffs, and deep valleys were unforgettable. These day trips and weekend adventures gave us a much-needed reset and a chance to experience some of California’s most impressive landscapes.
Outside of the parks and trails, we made the most of what was nearby. With other fellow interns, I visited Napa and Sonoma for wine tastings and scenic drives. We also spent time in Sausalito, Angel Island, and the Presidio, each offering a new perspective on the Bay. One weekend we went down to Santa Cruz for the beach, the boardwalk, and a change of pace. Every destination was close enough for a quick trip, but different enough to make each one memorable.
Living in San Francisco was an experience in itself. I visited well-known spots like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Pier 39, Coit Tower, and the Embarcadero. I spent time exploring the galleries at the San Francisco MoMA, had relaxed afternoons in Golden Gate Park, and met friends at Dolores Park on sunny weekends. I also had the chance to experience the heart of the U.S. tech scene by visiting the offices of a couple of fellow Boothies. We kept going back to a standout ramen spot in Japantown—five times by the end of the summer. One night, I returned to a restaurant I had first visited 23 years ago during my first trip to the U.S. It was a small but meaningful moment that brought the experience full circle.
This summer wasn’t just about work. It was about making the most of where I was and who I was with. Having a large Boothie community nearby made it easy to stay connected. Whether we were hiking, exploring new places, or just grabbing dinner after work, those shared moments added a lot to the experience.
Looking back, the summer in the Bay Area gave me a great mix of professional development, personal growth, and community. I came in excited for the role but left with much more. Memories, friendships, and a deeper appreciation for what this part of the country has to offer.
