USA (Virtual): Joseph Bradisse

Here I am at my virtual internship with Change The Chamber. In this meeting, we’re preparing for a meeting with Senator Joe Manchin’s (D-WV) staff to ask, among many things, about his stance and work on the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure package being drafted and debated on in Congress at the time.

Program: Wisconsin in Washington, DC Internship Program, Summer virtual

Joseph’s Major: Political Science

Describe your internship and how it has helped advance your career or studies. 

My internship was spent pushing corporations, congresspeople, and the US Chamber of Commerce to advocate for pro-science policies that combat climate change. Specifically, I spent my time questioning congresspeople and their staff about their stances on policies to combat climate change, and made sure to push them in the right direction. I believe this helped me because it gave me the knowledge I would need to make sure government officials answer to their real bosses: the people; and I’ll be sure to use this knowledge as I try to find a job with a Congressional committee.

What was your most memorable experience?

My most memorable experience was when I met a Senator’s staff for the first time alongside my organization. It was a nerve-wracking experience, and I was shaking when I asked my question, but it was exciting being able to question a government official to make sure a legislator would be held accountable.

What is the moment you are most proud of? 

The moment I am most proud of was during one of our prep meetings with another Senator’s staff. In this meeting, I pulled knowledge from my class on emotional triggers and responses, and how they can be used to ensure accountability in legislators. It fascinated my teammates, and I felt proud having contributed something new to their strategies.

What is your advice for someone considering this program?

For someone considering this program, cast as wider net than you think you need. I suggest applying everywhere you want to, then apply to some places that make you say “Oh, that seems interesting,” then apply to other places that may not stand out. This wide net will catch something for you, and increase your chances of finding an internship.

“It was exciting being able to question a government official to make sure a legislator would be held accountable.”