I loved being trusted with real work. I was in the room at important meetings and informed of the impact the work I was doing regularly. I also treasured the one-on-one mentorship offered by my supervisor, which expanded the scope of learning I experienced. Moreover, even important members at the organization routinely took the time to find interest in my own life, enhancing my interpersonal experience. I also enjoyed working alongside the other interns, who, though performing different functions for the organization, were a constant source of camaraderie and laughter. Finally, D.C., the heart of legal and political operations, was an incredible place to be for my interests.
What I wish was different
I wish I had more chances to interact with more senior members of the organization. That being said, they did make themselves readily available, but in my error I didn't take full advantage of that opportunity until the last few weeks.
Advice
Though I had read extensively about the work that the Government Accountability Project (GAP) does, when I stepped foot in the office I didn’t know what to expect. I didn’t know I would get a chance to casually say hello to Elizabeth Warren in passing, prepare briefing materials for a senior governmental official before his testimony before congress, or be a part of a movement to help end family detention. In short, the best advice I can give is this: you won’t know what to expect, so come in with an open, curious mind and an impassioned heart.
