University of Wisconsin–Madison

USA: Sydney David

Program: Wisconsin in Washington, Spring

Sydney’s Major: Economics, Environmental Studies Certificate

What is your most memorable experience from your program?

A person in a plaid jacket stands by a body of water. On both sides of the person are branches filled with cherry blossoms.
I enjoyed seeing the cherry blossoms bloom down by the Tidal Basin (despite the crowds of people)!

My most memorable experience from the program is becoming close friends with my cohort. Being in a new place with many other people who have fascinating passions driving them to work hard in this program will bond you for life. Take every opportunity to get to know coworkers, peers, and others in your life because you never know what you may learn from them.

Describe your internship, research, or fieldwork and how the experience helped advance your career or studies.

My work with the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget has given me a look into the intersection of economics and policy work. With the CRFB, I have conducted fiscal policy research on papers and bills and aided our analysts with conclusions on how to pursue a fiscally responsible budget. I have gained insight into research methods and writing and sourcing skills that are highly applicable in the professional world.

A person in a brown long sleeved shirt and green pants sits on a blue couch.
This is me in my office that I worked in-person twice a week this semester.

What is the moment you are most proud of?

I am most proud of my personal and professional growth this semester. In my internship I learned how to work independently in a fast-paced office and how to effectively advocate for myself when I need help. This has transferred into my personal growth by making me a more communicative friend and family member, skills that are deeply important in both areas of my life.