Employer
United States Representative Darin LaHood (Washington, DC Office)
Internship Title
Congressional Intern
What were your duties?
As a Congressional intern interested in political communications, I aided in the Congressman's communications department by assisting in writing speeches and creating content for his social media pages. I also administered tours of the Capitol to constituents, answered constituent phone calls and responded to questions and concerns, attended official hearings and committee meetings, and much more.
What did you most enjoy about your internship?
I enjoyed being inside the excitement of Washington, DC politics while still serving and being connected to my hometown and home state of Illinois. Also having access to a good portion of the US Capitol was incredible.
What was the most difficult aspect of the internship?
The most difficult, yet most fun, part of the internship was adjusting to the fast pace work environment in Washington, DC and Capitol Hill. This internship put an emphasis on being able to make educated decisions quickly, yet effectively, and successfully complete important tasks in a busy environment.
How did your experience at ILLINOIS and in the College of Media prepare you for your internship?
Being a student at Illinois and in the Journalism department specifically has reinforced to me the importance of having a stellar work ethic. University of Illinois students work hard - having these skills and this mindset allowed for even more doors to be opened up for me in DC.
How has your internship prepared you for a career?
This internship has given me valuable skills and networking contacts needed to pursue my career in political communications and/or political journalism. I hope to return to Washington, DC after graduation, and having these contacts has already made this goal more achievable.
What recommendations do you have for other students about doing an internship?
My recommendation is to apply for anything and everything that you find, even if you don't think you'll get it or if it's not exactly what you want. You never know what could happen, so don't doubt yourself and just go for it!
