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| Thomas Anderson |
“It’s a happy talent to know how to play.”
I couldn’t agree more with Ralph Waldo Emerson, and luckily I’m in the ideal setting for exercising my “happy talent.” Not only do I get to enjoy myself from 9-5, but I have the entire city of Chicago waiting for me when I leave the office. Whether I’m looking to socialize with co-workers in Star Bar or would like to explore the greater Chicagoland area, there are endless opportunities for every taste and mood.
You can’t begin a discussion of the social life for SMG employees without mentioning Star Bar. Located on the 21st floor of our building, this picturesque lounge offers breathtaking views of downtown Chicago and unbeatable drink specials during the week (for those 21 and over of course.) It’s a great place to meet up with co-workers at the end of a long day, and you’re even allowed to bring guests! The interns have gathered there to introduce ourselves, celebrate birthdays, or kick off the start to the weekend (I personally have a special affinity for Fridays, as several of the interns know.) But having our very own bar within the building is only the beginning. Our office is located in the middle of the Chicago Loop, providing a wide range of fun activities within short walking distance.
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| Picture I took this summer. |
If you’re the sporty type, Chicago won’t disappoint. Depending on the time of the year, you can check out a professional baseball, basketball, football, hockey, or soccer game. Some of you may prefer to play sports, and there are plenty of opportunities to be active as well. As a SMG employee, you can become a member of Revisions, a fitness club located across the street from our office. Some of the highlights include yoga classes, zumba lessons, and an indoor track for running fanatics. Although you won’t see me running laps in the gym, you might find me in one of the various fitness classes.
Apart from playing sports, I enjoy spending time with my fellow employees. You quickly discover that SMG takes the work hard, play hard mentality very seriously. After one of my supervisors received a promotion, our team went out to dinner to celebrate his achievement. It was great getting to know my co-workers outside of our cubicles and it helped me form a closer bond to my team. Other teams like to have fun too, taking trips to Six Flags Great America or attending Cubs games. Chicago is truly our playground, and the opportunities are endless.
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| An attraction I visited in Chicago. |
There are a few things I would HIGHLY recommend for anyone visiting or living in Chicago. For those who enjoy art, The Art Institute of Chicago is absolutely amazing. It’s free on Family Wednesdays and on Thursday nights for students, so be sure to check it out. If you’re into music, you have to attend the countless festivals and concerts in the city. Lollapalooza is a huge event during the summer, as well as the Taste of Chicago and the many street festivals in Chicago’s neighborhoods. For something low key, I would check out a karaoke bar in Chinatown. Unfortunately, I’m a terrible singer but enjoy myself nonetheless.
It’s impossible to describe all of fun things we get to do after work. I can say that I’ve had the best time in and outside of the office, and couldn’t have asked for a better summer.
Mr. Emerson would be proud!
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