Congresswoman Gwen Moore represents Wisconsin's 4th Congressional District, which is comprised of the City of Milwaukee and some of its surrounding suburbs. I started as an intern in her District Office this past May (that's me on the left with the Congresswoman and the other intern, Dylan). I expected no more than to have to get coffee and open the mail, but I ended up having far more responsibility. Every day I would answer the phone and listen to constituents' concerns, typically either legislative opinions or requests for help with federal programs. It was my job to either direct the constituent to the appropriate government office or take in their case so one of Congresswoman Moore's staffers could assist them. Many people who called were frustrated, desperate, or angry, so this job required all of my patience and sympathy. 

 

Mid-June, I was offered a part time job as the Congresswoman's scheduler. I took on the responsibility of keeping three separate schedules up to date, as well as responding to requests for meetings, speeches, and letters of recognition. This, on top of my normal intern duties, made for a very fast paced and sometimes frustratingly complicated job, but I loved it. I strongly urge anyone with even a remote interest in politics to apply to intern for their state or federal representative. You learn so much about how government works from a very intimate position, and you will get to meet and speak with some of the most interesting people. I now know so much more about the city I call home, the issues it faces, and the wonderful people who work to make it better every day.