Taking a deep breath, I pushed open the heavy glass doors, about to take my first step as the new intern at Assemblyman Scharfenberger and Assemblywoman Flynn’s offices. Little did I know that it would mark the start of an amazing journey of growth, self-reflection, and learning. Throughout my time there, I didn’t just learn the basics of the legislative process, but also shaped my mindset and way of thinking. Specifically, I conducted a host of policy research, especially in relation to aiding local small business, as well as mitigating educational learning loss in schools due to Covid-19. I’ve learned all about governmental affairs, how to draft bills, present them to large groups, and convince people to vote in favor of the legislation.

I was consistently supported and encouraged by those around me to go beyond my comfort zone, coming up with novel policy solutions to everyday problems. For example, in order to help small business flourish once again after the pandemic, as well as promote technological development, I came up with a program that offered grant money / tax incentives for small businesses that partnered with local universities in order to further Research and Development (R&D) projects. That is but one instance of the work I was able to accomplish during my time, all while making an impact in the community. Being in an office environment, I was also able to gain essential social skills from observing and interacting with officials and staff members. I now have a toolkit of assets that will accompany me wherever I go, and I’m happy to say that I have walked away from this internship a different person than when I first walked in.