This summer, I became fluent in ‘Branglish’ and had the privilege of being part of CSD’s top program—the Law Program! Under the guidance of the brilliant Maria Stoyanova, I contributed to promoting fundamental rights and expanding media freedom within the EU by developing proposals for the European Commission. My passion for the intersection between law and media also led me to serve as an editor for Maria’s upcoming book, Trial by Media. Lastly, I revised and improved training materials for prison guards to reinforce best practices in their interactions with incarcerated minors.

No two days were the same at CSD. I grappled with the challenge of Russian malign influence alongside the American Ambassador to Bulgaria and celebrated NATO’s 75th anniversary with the Bulgarian Minister of Defense. Dr. Shentov graciously welcomed us into his home for an afternoon of warm, buttery banitsa (I need to ask him for the recipe!), and every Thursday was “thirsty” enough to conclude with a lively office party. Beyond CSD, weekends were a chance for me to dive into a new hobby: hiking. Accompanied by my co-interns from around the world, I discovered Vitosha Mountain, the Seven Rila Lakes, Rila National Park, and the “Tepes” of Plovdiv.

Although I’m Bulgarian American, this was my first time staying in Sofia for an extended period, and it quickly became one of my favorite cities, seamlessly blending cosmopolitanism with natural beauty. It’s only a matter of time before the rest of the world catches on to the underrated charm of Bulgaria’s hidden gem of a capital. Prague, watch out—there’s a new contender in town.

I’m eagerly looking forward to reuniting with Maria and the rest of the CSD family the next time I’m in Sofia! And to all the other interns who made this summer so special—same time next year?