DC Dispatches-Summer 2025

Madina in front of the White House

Madina Amiri
Legislative Intern, Office of Senator John Hickenlooper

During my internship, I attended briefings and hearings, wrote memos, and met with senators, which gave me hands-on insight into how the U.S. government functions. As a refugee, I was especially curious about the system, and this experience not only deepened my understanding but also allowed me to build valuable connections with legislative staff on Capitol Hill. Living in D.C. without my family pushed me out of my comfort zone, made me stronger, and helped me become more independent and confident.

Flynn Condit
Legislative Intern, Office of Congressman Jason Crow
From shaking hands with the French Ambassador to the U.S. to a selfie with Senator Cory Booker, the opportunities I connected with in Washington D.C. this summer were unparalleled. As a U.S. Congressional Intern for Congressman Jason Crow, I handled tough questions over the phone, wrote memos for our legislative team, and shaped our communications strategy. Interns are the first point of contact in our office, and interactions with both staff and the general public are invaluable to both our communities and our policymakers – that’s real public service.

Marsus in Old US Senate Chambers

Marsus Merino
Legislative Intern, Office of Senator Michael Bennet.
My internship with Senator Bennet was a truly transformative experience that exposed me to a completely new environment, both professionally and personally. Coming in, I had little direct experience with government or policymaking, but throughout my time in the office, I gained a deeper understanding of how our systems work and the many moving parts involved in creating change. I was able to learn about a wide range of issues, from immigration to taxes to housing and more, and I developed a better grasp of how policy decisions are made and how they directly impact people’s lives.

One of the most valuable aspects of my internship was learning how to ask thoughtful questions and engage with people from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. I realized that listening and being open to other viewpoints is essential not only in public service, but in life. I also became more confident in my ability to do research, understand opposing arguments, and think critically about how to address complex problems. Additionally, I had the opportunity to learn about the history of the U.S. Senate, how bills are passed, and the significance of the Capitol building as both a symbol and a functional space for democracy.

This internship opened my eyes to how much work goes on behind the scenes to make our systems function, and it inspired me to continue being involved in public service. It helped me realize that I want to play a part in improving the systems that affect our communities every day. Professionally, it pushed me to be more engaged, informed, and proactive. Personally, it motivated me to stay connected to current issues and continue learning about how I can make a meaningful difference in the world around me.

Lara Widger,
Governance Studies Intern, Brookings Institution

My internship at the Brookings Institution was everything I wished for and more, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have interned there. I worked personally with senior fellows Molly Reynolds and Sarah Binder, and I had the opportunity to step into an interim research assistant role during a transition period which taught me beyond the conventional internship. Not only did I grow professionally by interacting with the senior fellows frequently, but I had a glimpse into what a research assistant position entails. Further, I was able to connect with other people within Brookings who had completed master’s programs, and I have built a network of connections to support me in continuing my education. The Brookings Institution was focused on supporting intern growth, and I would love the opportunity to work there again someday.