This summer, NeW is proud to highlight the great internship opportunities NeW women are experiencing in the workplace. Meet Raegan Lehman, member of NeW at The Catholic University of America and intern for U.S. Congressman Tom Reed (NY-23). Raegan is a Political Science major. Learn more about her summer internship:
Why did you apply for this internship?
I wanted to serve a district that has meant so much to me. As my entire family is from the Southern Tier of New York, and that is where many of them still reside, it has always been like a second home for me. Congressman Reed has done so many amazing things for the 23rd district and will always fight for his constituents, so I knew that it was somewhere that I’d want to be.
What does your day look like in your internship?
I start my day around 8:30am and begin by sorting the newspapers. Then I review the national news of the day and compile what I deem to be the most important and send it off to our Legislative Correspondent (LC) to compile our “Press Clips”.
Additionally, the staff members will ask me to create bill justifications on current legislation being considered. Also, I work directly with our case workers in the district to ensure that every constituent’s situation is taken care of when they contact our DC office seeking help.
What has been your favorite part of the internship so far?
Getting the opportunity to work in such historic buildings and walking daily through the Capitol as opposed to just seeing it from a distance. Just being here has been incredible.
How does this internship help set you up for your career dreams?
This internship is giving me the first-hand knowledge and experience of the operations of Capitol Hill. As it is my first internship, it will help me decide which areas of the political world and conservative movement that I would like to focus on.
How has your experience with NeW prepared you for this role?
The support system at NeW has really been what has prepared me for this role. Whether it be my fellow chapter members, girls on other campuses, or the women in NeW leadership, everyone has been there to answer all of my questions and offer advice. NeW is truly a community and it is unlike any other organization that I have been a part of.
Any advice for other students who are looking for an internship?
Apply! It can’t hurt to apply to your dream office or your dream internship because the worst they can say is “no”. You will never know where you could work or who you could work for if you don’t try! There are so many internship opportunities out there and you are bound to find the right one for you.
