It was a great first-hand experience for the day-to-day responsibilities of a U.S. Senator as seen through the lens of their regional office staff. I had the opportunity to interact with constituents with a wide variety of political opinions.
What I wish was different
I wish I had gotten the chance to meet the Senator, but he was in D.C. during my intern period. I also wish there were more opportunities to do outreach work as opposed to just reacting to constituent mail and phone calls.
Advice
Go into it with an open mind. You will interact with some people with whom you may agree, and others who will vehemently disagree with you. Be prepared to face some confrontation with some constituents, but don't take it personally, and understand that you are doing important work for an elected official to be able to understand the opinions of their constituency.
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Investigative Intern
June - August 2019 • Washington, DC
What I liked
The ability to work closely with our Federal Government to investigate the wrongdoings of corporations and government entities.
What I wish was different
I wish it had been longer.
Advice
Experience everything you can. My experience was short but packed full of life changing events.
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Intern
September - December 2017 • Washington, DC
What I liked
I liked getting to work in a historical location and learning the ins and out of the US Government.
What I wish was different
I wish I got more hands on experience in the formation of legislation. It would have been really helpful to shadow a staffer.
Advice
Reach out to the staffers that work in the area that you are interested in and offer your help. Just take initiative.
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Senate Intern
May - June 2018 • Washington, DC
What I liked
What I wish was different
Advice
Interning in Washington, D.C. is an impactful and worthwhile experience. One piece of advice is to be flexible because you never know what opportunities you will have to network and meet other people. Also, be willing to take chances and go outside of your comfort zone to meet people you don't know.
