In the Spring of 2020, I served as a Legislative Intern in the Washington, DC office of my Congresswoman, Susan Wild (PA-7). It was quite the fulfilling experience. Each day I got to go to work on issues and write correspondence for the benefit of my neighbors back home in the Lehigh Valley (PA). In fact, when constituents would call the office, more often than not, I would know the person on the end of the line. The benefits offered by the connection I had to the district that the Congresswoman represents was extremely beneficial to my work as an Intern. When we reviewed legislation, or took positions on certain issues, I knew the people, community organizations, and businesses that they would impact. I knew what they would want from the work we were doing.
My interest in taking up the internship was rooted in a deep commitment and interest to the betterment of the community that gave me so much while growing up. It was my way to give back to my neighbors, teachers, friends, and family. The benefit that the experience provided me was not just related to service, either. I also was able to expand my skill set to being able to work in a fast-paced office environment focused on results, and be exposed to the world of public policy as well as public relations. I had to interact with the public before, but the stakes were higher that time. Not only was I interacting with the public, but I was interacting with constituents who trusted the Congresswoman to offer results, and bring something tangible back to the district that would really benefit them.
It was so fulfilling to be a part of the work that Congresswoman Wild’s office performed. The skills I picked up were, and are to this day, invaluable. I am so thankful for the opportunity I had that semester, and will never forget it.
