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STEP Post-Project Reflection

For my STEP Signature Project, I participated in the Washington Academic Internship Program from May-August with my cohort of 29 peers. For this program, I worked full-time as an intern on Capitol Hill and I was also enrolled as a full-time student taking 12-credit hours (Three Public Affairs Courses). Also, I participated in professional development workshops throughout the summer and went on study tours of the city of DC.

Because of my STEP Signature Project, I learned a lot about myself. As mentioned before, I lived in Washington, DC for three months, and this was the first time I have ever lived away from home. My view of the world was transformed immensely because of this. The city and culture of DC was very fast-paced, but I enjoyed the city and its politics. I learned that I can live on my own away from my family and friends, I learned that I can successfully be a full-time student and intern, and I learned how to budget immensely as DC is an expensive city. Ultimately, I became an all-around better person and professional and by the time I left DC, I felt like a true DC native.

The most influential relationships that affected my personal growth this summer were my roommates. We were in very close proximity as all three of us shared a one-bedroom apartment for three-months. They became my close support system, and we were all in the same program, so we made sure to look out for one another and encourage each other when needed. Because of their encouragement, my confidence in myself and my abilities while in DC were heightened.

Another influential relationship that affected my personal growth this summer was with my assigned WAIP mentor, Katelyn. She was truly amazing and the most influential person I feel that I have met in my life so far. She took the initiative to connect me with a plethora of lawyers in the city, and she really dedicated time to ensure that we built a great friendship. Because of our relationship, I left DC with a vast network of lawyers in DC, and I left with a gained confidence that I will be a very distinguished Black women lawyer one day. My career goals were solidified.

Finally, my experience as an intern for Senator Sherrod Brown on Capitol Hill led to tremendous professional development and growth. The work environment here was very fast-paced, intense and long-hours, but I believe that this was great for me especially considering that I would like to be a lawyer one day. Also, I sharpened my legislative writing and researching skills which is a great skill that I will need for the rest of my life.

Ultimately, the experience that I had over the summer was extremely valuable to me because it was very transformative for me. Before going out to DC this summer, I was extremely nervous about my future. As a student who is graduating a year early, I felt that I was running out of time to form solid after under-grad job plans. However, because of this program and the experiences that I had and the people that I met, I feel very confident in my ability to apply for law school after undergrad and to pursue my career as a lawyer whether that be in DC or another state.