What was your first week like working on Capitol Hill?
During the first week of my congressional internship I learned many things about DC, about our political system, about the district of the Congressman I am working with, and, most importantly, about myself. Firstly, I exercised my ability to adapt quickly to a new environment as I was given responsibilities that were accompanied with new expectations. While I have prior experience working with various community organizations and professional offices, I’m glad to be able to observe the unique dynamics of an office that operates under a strictly regulated process (as hearings, briefings, meetings, votes, and other functions adhere to a schedule) and simultaneously takes in stride the hectic environment of an extremely busy institution. That is, what was most interesting to me was how Capitol Hill is an epicenter that houses some of the world’s most influential people and deals with pressing matters, yet is also a place where constituents and everyday citizens can engage with their representatives. The highlight of my first week was being able to attend briefings on the Hill. I especially enjoyed those that covered topics that I was not previously informed about.
