University of Wisconsin–Madison

United States: Karis Gilbert

Program: UW Wisconsin in Washington, DC Internship Program, Spring

Karis’ Major: Political Science

Karis, indoors, posing next to a sign that reads "CWLA Public Policy". A row of tables is behind her.
As part of my internship for the semester I got to attend the organization’s annual conference, as well as, organize and participate in Hill Day meetings with members from across the country that were lobbying on behalf of child welfare legislation.

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

I interned for Child Welfare League of America (CWLA) as a public policy intern. As part of my internship I attended and reported on hearings given by Congress on bills and markups, as well as, webinars given by NGOs that are part of coalitions with CWLA. One of the coolest parts of my job was attending lobbying meetings on the Hill with my supervisor. It was beneficial to see how a lobbying group operates and in particular what it is like to meet with offices on both sides of the political aisle.

How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW-Madison?

Two of the courses we took, U.S. Congress and U.S. Foreign Policy, focused on both learning the content and professional development through a different guest speaker every class. The purpose of these classes was to focus on making connections with mid to high-level professionals in D.C. in areas that we were pursuing. During a heightened time of job uncertainty and constant restructuring, it was helpful to hear from current and past professionals about their path in getting to D.C. and what they were doing now. This was different from UW as we were able to go beyond the classroom and get targeted career guidance and insight.

Every experience, whether informal or formal, that I have had in D.C. has provided me with an opportunity to make connections with people and advance my professional network.

Three students standing on a sidewalk outside the Supreme Court building. They are posing next to a sign that reads "Courtroom Seating Line Forms Here".
One of the more memorable experiences from our time in D.C. was getting to attend oral arguments for the Supreme Court. We had to get up extremely early to wait in line as spots are not guaranteed, but it was worth it for the experience.

What is your advice for someone considering your program?

The program is what you make it. If you are motivated to put yourself out there and apply to internships that you may at first feel underqualified for then you will reap the benefits. Every experience, whether informal or formal, that I have had in D.C. has provided me with an opportunity to make connections with people and advance my professional network. The effort you put into the program is the same energy that you will get back.