Hometown: Bloomingdale, MI
Major: Political Science & Philosophy
Internship Placement: Atlas Crossing
Why did you decide to do Michigan in Washington?
I love DC. There is an energy in DC that cannot be replicated. Everybody is here to further something they feel is right, and that alone is an amazing feeling.
What do you do during a typical day at your internship?
I usually just help the team with whatever tasks they need to get done. The days are usually never the same, with different legislative-related events happening every day.
What's something that you're proud of that you've done at your internship so far?
I am proud of my ability to meet people and maintain relationships with those people. I love learning from other people and hearing about the experiences of so many policy-oriented people has helped me understand where I am going, but also understanding how they got to their positions has been great.
How has your skillset evolved or changed since you began working on this internship?
I have become more knowledgeable about American politics, especially around Congress. Having worked in a Senator's office and now off the hill, I have seen both sides of the legislative experience and have a broad understanding of how it works.
What is one fun activity that you have done since being in D.C.?
This isn't necessarily specific to DC, but I have loved Trivia Nights around the town. I go with my friends, whether students or alumni, and we just have fun playing trivia. I am of the strong opinion that DC is not made up of the city, it's made up of the people in the city.
What advice would you give to a student interested in Michigan in Washington?
My advice would be to try anything you're interested in. DC has so much to offer and is a great place to have an internship. I'd also say do not worry too much. It's easy to worry about internships or going abroad, but I would just say do what comes naturally. Things usually work out in the end.
