I enjoyed attending Senate hearings, connecting with field experts, and befriending people who had similar interests and knew more than I did.
What I wish was different
I wish there was a stronger community amongst all of the interns and also I wish I got to know Wellesley alums in DC, but I couldn’t find a good way to reach out to that network.
Advice
Diversify your experiences! I worked from 9-6, but I had to attend mandatory career-building workshops and events afterwards as part of a fellowship I was a part of and even though I was tired, it was so worth it. Don’t be afraid to ask your supervisors for advice or permission to leave early to go an event that interests you. Make the most of your internship experience, grow, and learn!
Be the first to mark this as helpful
Grants/Legislative Intern
May - August 2018 • Washington, DC
What I liked
It provided access to insider Senate events and information and gave me a sense of how the Senate works.
What I wish was different
I would have liked to have gotten more work from my boss.
Advice
Take advantage of the resources the Senate provides! Go to hearings and briefings (and if you can, take the Capitol Dome tour). Also, be willing to do anything that’s asked of you: no task is too small.
Be the first to mark this as helpful
Intern
June - August 2018 • New York City, NY
What I liked
It was an extremely unique experience to be in the office of a sitting US Senator. Everyday there was fresh news and a new conversation to have with all of your coworkers. I was able to help constituents with issues concerning Social Security, healthcare, the Victim Compensation Fund and much more. I was also able to meet the Senator multiple times and walked in a few parade next to him!
What I wish was different
The only thing I would change was having the option to work more. We were limited to only part time work and I would have enjoyed being full time.
Advice
I would encourage anyone with an interest in policy or politics to apply to positions with US Congress people because it is a unique and wonderful experience.
