USA : Lauren Edwards (Daily Life in DC)

Daily Life in DC 

This summer, I am interning on the Hill with Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) in the U.S. House of Representatives. I work full time from 9:00am-6:00pm when we are in session, and until 5:00pm when we are out of session. Every morning, I walk to work to the Longworth House Office Building, where my office is located. The walk to work is usually hot and humid, but there are pretty sights to see along the way. Every day, I walk past the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress and the US Capitol.

When I reach Longworth I go through security and head to our office. Once I reach the office, I check my email and get started on the daily news clips. I work closely with our Communications Director, so much of the work I do is determined by what she assigns to me. This includes writing op-eds, press releases and newsletters, as well as creating social content and graphics. Additionally, I help out with our Legislative Assistant and Legislative Director on various legislative tasks. This includes monitoring a bill markup, tracking amendments, and summarizing the weekly votes. Furthermore, all of the interns assist generally in the office by answering the phones, leading constituents on tours, and greeting people for meetings with the Congressman.

My days in the office are typically quite busy, especially when we are in session. Working in a Congressional office comes with a fast-paced and ever-changing work environment, which I have found both exciting and engaging. At the end of the day, I leave the office and walk back to my apartment. Once I get home, I unpack my bag, pick out my outfit for the next day, do homework, pack my lunch for tomorrow, and then get ready to go to bed. That’s my typical day in DC!

 

Lauren Edwards   

Major: Political Science and Legal Studies, Certificates in Health Policy and Public Policy

Hometown: Hartland, Wisconsin

Program: Wisconsin in Washington

I chose my program because I want to develop my skills related to public policy. This program will allow me to get firsthand experience with policy at the epicenter of U.S. government and policymaking and better prepare me for my future career. Additionally, being in Washington D.C. will grant many opportunities for networking and allow me to further expand my skill set.