Stuffing envelopes, answering phone calls, and running countless errands. These are the tasks that come to mind when you think of a congressional internship.
And yes, although I have completed these stereotypical tasks, my internship with Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson through the Penn State Washington Program has taught me so much more than how to refill the coffee pot.
Congressional interns get a wide variety of tasks to complete, but I have mostly focused on legislative and communications work. So far, I have worked on everything from legislative research, to compiling briefing reports, and even speechwriting. After my third week, I have already written three speeches that were delivered on the House floor and shown on national television. My colleagues are constantly giving me opportunities to gain new experiences, and I am certainly working hard to make the most of my time in the House of Representatives.
Other bonuses of completing a congressional internship are the impromptu trips I get to take to the Capitol or around Washington, D.C. Just last week I accompanied Rep. Thompson and our communications director, Bailey Hall, to C-SPAN’s studios. Rep. Thompson did a live segment on Washington Journal, and I was lucky enough to tag along. Seeing the studio and the entire operation was very impressive. I never realized how much time and preparation went into producing a TV show, and this experience was something I’ll never forget.
It has always been my belief that opportunities present themselves to those who search for them. My internship with Rep. Thompson has undoubtedly presented me with many amazing opportunities to learn and grow as a person. As my internship moves forward, I will continue to take full advantage of my time on Capitol Hill.
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