Regional Intern
Dayna
Experience Information
Employer: Senator Gary Peters' Regional Office
Job Title: Constituent Relations
Major: Political Science
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: No
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Senator Gary Peters has seven offices in Michigan, each with one-two regional directors and one-five interns. The office in Detroit handles casework while the other six handle constituent relations and local events. His office in Washington D.C. is where the largest concentration of staff and interns are. The regional offices give the constituents an opportunity to contact the senator's office and voice his/her opinion about legislation, activities or other problems that they may have.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
As an intern in the Rochester office, I was tasked with answering phones, sending emails, going through newspapers and pulling out interesting stories/events, processing business cards, outreach programs and writing letters to individuals who are being recognized for an accomplishment or a promotion.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I learned how to effectively answer a constituent's question if I fully did not know the answer myself. I also learned how to concisely write a congratulatory letter as well as where the Senator stands on specific issues.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of the internship would be working with great people who are a wealth of knowledge. Each of my supervisors had his own view about an array of topics, and listening to them talk expanded my knowledge even more. I also liked going on "field trips", be it meeting the Senator or touring a facility.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
It has opened my mind to the various opportunities that are possible with a political science degree, as well as within a Senator's office. It has given me a lot to think about, regarding campaigning and office work.