Petya Pucci

Tell us about your summer in our nation’s capital!

My summer was phenomenal! I interned for the Office of Management and Budget within the Executive Office of the President. My job entailed providing research and analysis on a broad range of issues involving Energy, Science, and Water policy. What I loved most about this position is that every day presents an opportunity to learn, meet new people, and – most importantly – to contribute to the federal policymaking process.

You were born and raised in Bulgaria. What brought you to Las Vegas?

My family had been living here since the early 2000’s, so when I decided to move to the U.S., my destination was virtually predetermined. Looking in hindsight, however, I realize I could not have made a better choice. The cultural diversity, abundant job opportunities, and low cost of living make Las Vegas particularly suitable for new immigrants like me.

You studied law in Bulgaria. How would you compare that experience to studying at Boyd?

First, my current class is far more diverse in terms of demographics and life experience (partly due to the fact that Law is an undergraduate program in Bulgaria). Second, the teaching methods at Boyd are much more interactive: we read casebooks instead of codes and apply the Socratic Method as opposed to plain lectures. Overall, Boyd is way more fun!

What was the first thing about U.S. culture that made you say “Wow!”?

Definitely the holiday decorations! It absolutely blew my mind when I first saw some of the local Christmas displays. From nativity scenes to light shows, people seem to go all-out in the name of the holiday spirit. And the same happens around Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day, Halloween – there is never a shortage of holiday-themed merchandise or interested buyers.