You can’t take the Effect and make it the Cause
How many members of Congress are cool enough to quote the rock band White Stripes on the House Floor during a debate about the government shutdown? Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards of Maryland’s 4th Congressional District is of course!
I have been working on the Hill for about a month and a half now in her office and my experience has been great. I couldn’t have asked for a better staff, and fortunately I have been given the autonomy to do a lot of interesting things as an intern. I attended and took notes for Legislative Assistants at several briefings, attended an Intern 101 course where they shared tips and strategies on how to be a better intern, and learned how to cultivate and efficiently use the resources that I have been given to prospectively find a job. One highlight during my time here, was taking a tour of the Senate Chamber with my staff members. Furthermore, this weekend I will be helping with a College Fair being organized by Congresswoman Edwards to advocate college readiness in the Prince George’s and Montgomery County areas.
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I’m just a small town Minnesota girl who decided to take a chance and apply for an internship that would challenge me as well as take advantage of the resources available in a bigger city. I couldn’t have made a better choice. Although I have only been here for a short time, I feel an internal drive and confidence that I never had before. Meeting and forming relationships with so many strong, beautiful and smart women has really made a powerful impact on me.
From the supportive staff of Running Start to the Chief of Staff in my office, and the Congresswoman herself, I stand in awe of what these women have accomplished. This internship has opened a door for me that I would have never dreamed could be opened for me. But now that I am here, the possibilities for my future are limitless and no longer limited to a few paths. What will be my next step? Your guess is as good as mine. But I have an insurmountable optimism in my foreseeable future.
Star Fellow: Marie Verbeten
Office: Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards (MD-4)
Graduate of: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Degree: Child Psychology, Minor in African American Studies
Future Academic Aspirations: Master’s in Public Health and Public Policy
