There was a lot of focus on personal development with many networking opportunities including: a one-on-one meeting with the state Comptroller and all teams across the office; plenty of focus on interviewing, job applications, resumes, etc.; and opportunities to work with other interns on projects.
What I wish was different
This particular program (the Business Enterprise Systems Transformation Program) did not have a ton of work for me to do. Other internships in the office had more work, but it also was not busy work I was given.
Advice
Take advantage of the networking opportunities.
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Pathways Intern, Consular Affairs, Office of the Comptroller
September 2017 • Washington, DC
What I liked
Since the State Department is unable to hire staff for full time positions, interns are able to take on real and important work within the Department! My team has been very kind and willing to help me, while also challenging me to do my best and learn more about subjects that I didn't know much about before starting my internship there.
What I wish was different
Sometimes the bureaucracy of the State Department can be hard to deal with- I wish there was a better way to get answers to questions during the hiring and on-boarding process.
Advice
Be patient with the on-boarding process, because once you're in, the State Department is a great place to be! Push yourself outside of your comfort zone and work in a field you might not be familiar with- you'll get great experience and learn a lot!
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Intern to Special Projects
May - August 2017 • Boston, MA
What I liked
I liked that I was exposed to a variety of different things though the Office of the Comptroller, especially my position working in operations and special projects. Other employees are great and there are many opportunities for mentorship if you seek them out.
What I wish was different
At times there was not always work that had to be done, do I did sit idle sometimes.
Advice
Seek out opportunities in the office and always ask others if they could use an extra hand in something.
