Tagged: Capitol Hill
The Wondrous Experience of Capitol Hill
by Taylor-Ann Greenwood (Spring 2017)
As one of the most diverse cities in the nation, Washington D.C. offers an astonishing array of social, cultural, and historical experiences for its visitors and residents. As I quickly discovered More
History Has Its Eyes On You
by Abigail Kass (Fall 2016)
This past semester, I was lucky enough to spend a few months in DC during one of the craziest and most turbulent times in U.S. history. From attending briefings on Capitol Hill, to exploring historic sites throughout the city, to even just grabbing brunch in Adams Morgan, my semester in DC was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. More
Washington, D.C. – A Crossroads of Action and Adventure
by Samuel Baker (Fall 2016)
Before I attempt to reflect on my experiences in D.C. this semester, it must be noted that the Presidential election has influenced my perspective on what I have seen and on what I have done. Indeed, the primary reason I decided to spend my penultimate undergraduate semester in Washington was to witness what I believe to be a pivotal election in our nation’s history, More
The Loudest City with the Quietest Voice
by Christina Lucas (Summer 2016)
This summer I had the opportunity to become a part of the Washington D.C. community, culture, and politics. By the end of the summer, I had mastered the art of running down the escalator to catch the 8:50am train, engaged in numerous presidential candidate debates, and volunteered at the local elementary schools. More
Deva Taylor
4 Great Vegetarian Options in DC
Deva Taylor
Fall 2015
- Tono Sushi, Woodley Park
If you’re anything like me, changing from an omnivorous to a vegetarian diet was made particularly difficult by that simple preparation of raw fish and rice called sushi. And while I have grown to love sweet potato rolls and vegetable tempura, every now and then I crave something a little more fun on my plate - a craving perfectly satisfied by Tono Sushi’s spicy crunchy tofu roll. If the name doesn’t give it away, this maki roll is a blend of spicy mayo, protein-packed tofu, and tempura flakes. More
Samantha Nelson
The Pros and Cons of Working on the Hill
Samantha Nelson
Fall 2015
If you have ever had the chance of walking through the Congressional office buildings, especially in the summer, you may have noticed that the staff looks super young. That’s because they are – the average age of a Hill staffer is 26 – and if you look even closer, you will notice that a lot of those who are running around have orange IDs, the ultimate sign of an intern. Capitol Hill would not run half as efficiently (or perhaps at all) without intern labor. While Congress is a lot of things, it definitely provides an exciting work setting. However, this excitement does not come without its negatives. Here are some pros and cons of interning on the Hill:
Pro: You are in the middle of it all. If you love politics at all, I guarantee you will feel lightheaded after your first day working in-session. That’s because anywhere you go, you see Congressmen and Congresswomen– those people that are directly responsible for legislation, interstate commerce, declaring war. Additionally, you have the privilege of being “in the know.” Many times, policy bubbles up from the legislative staff before the Member finalizes it, and if you’re lucky enough you will be able to work on or at least hear about the policy before it even leaves the office. You are constantly aware of hearings, briefings, and the votes that occur on a daily basis. You are truly in the middle of the most important policy-making body in the United States. More
Kyle Plantz
6 Political Newsletters You Should Sign Up For Immediately
Kyle Plantz
Fall 2015
So now you’re in Washington, when all of a sudden you realize you have no idea what’s going on in the world of politics. Well, have no fear because I am here...to rhyme...and tell you what online newsletters you should get in your inbox and read every day. You’ll become a politico in no time.
The New York Times- First Draft on Politics
If you’re looking for an easy-to-read newsletter that will give you the basic political rundown of the day, then look no further than the NYT. Their political morning newsletter explains in layman’s terms everything you need to know that’s happening in Washington and on the campaign trail. Sign up here.
Politico Playbook
If you need to know what’s happening inside the Beltway — like waaaay inside — then there’s Playbook, a daily email from Politico’s Mike Allen. It’s a lengthy read, and pretty wonky, but it’s the place where all DC insiders go each morning. Sign up here.
Dan Stone
Becoming a Great Intern on the Hill
Dan Stone
Summer 2015
First things first, congrats on getting accepted to be an intern on the Hill. You did it. While many continually doubt the effectiveness of our Congress (and often justifiably so), no one can contest the fact that there is still much work to be done. More than likely, your part in that work will consist of corresponding with the multitude of constituents who will phone and write the office on a regular basis, researching legislation, and running miscellaneous errands, i.e. coffee runs for the Congressman or woman.
Becca Saran
Interning on Capitol Hill: Do’s and Don’t’s
By Becca Saran
Spring 2015
Congratulations! If you are reading this, you most likely have landed an internship at the center of the American political system. You should first of all be extremely proud of yourself for getting this far—getting an internship and working on the Hill is no easy feat and I am sure many college students would like to be in your shoes. The next few months will be some of the most stressful but ultimately rewarding months of your life. You will walk the same halls as past presidents and use the same cafeteria as future candidates.
I decided to put together a list of Do’s and Don’t’s for interning on Capitol Hill so that you don’t feel lost in the mix of interns and hopefully find it helpful during your first few weeks on the job!
Meghan Durfee
Living as an Apolitical Hill Intern
By Meghan Durfee
Spring 2015
As a business student with zero interest in American politics (or anything politics-related really), you might think it bizarre that I chose to study abroad in Washington, DC. You might also be puzzled to learn that I intern on Capitol Hill for a congressman from my home state. Hopefully by the end of this post you will have a better understanding my motivations for doing so.
