Employer
Laslo Congressional News Bureau
Internship Title
Intern
What were your duties?
Attending news conferences on Capitol Hill and writing briefs. Tracking down senators and congressmen for quotes. Going to cover other misc. events and happenings on the Hill. (Ex: Had to go cover several bars that were opened early for the James Comey testimony).
What did you most enjoy about your internship?
Having a cubicle in the Capitol Building, and just having an astounding amount of access to these politicians and the Capitol overall.
What was the most difficult aspect of the internship?
Learning the ropes of how Capitol Hill functions within 10 weeks, as well as being put right into the fray with other professional journalists.
How did your experience at ILLINOIS and in the College of Media prepare you for your internship?
Jennifer Follis lent me an audio recorder that was extremely essential to my job. But overall, journalism ethics, writing, and interviewing skills were all things I picked up in Media classes that transitioned into my internship.
How has your internship prepared you for a career?
I just feel ready now. Connections on the Hill were made of course, but the fast-paced nature of the news I had to cover this summer just added to my excitement to head into the real working journalism world.
What recommendations do you have for other students about doing an internship?
Be ready to be wrong, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Also, find time to step back and enjoy and take in everything you're doing.
