Major: Spanish

• Internship: Congressional Intern for the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Ami Bera (CA-07)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-sheffield/
• Current position: Graduate Student at Columbia University

Tell us about your internship – what kind of work did you do? What did you find rewarding?
I worked on Capitol Hill for Congressman Ami Bera. Capitol Hill life is fast-paced, heated, and very exciting! Every day, I helped answer calls and emails from constituents. I also got to attend briefings and write memos for the Congressman. The highlight of my time was attending a hearing for the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. I was able to help set up the hearing, help time the "speeches" and ensure the clock times were correct.

Have your career or life goals changed as a result of your internship? If so, how?
Yes! I am now more aware of the countless jobs available on the Hill and want to continue my interests in politics/legislation. I have now decided that I want to pursue law school! I am very grateful for my time in the UCDC Program!

Share an exciting memory from your internship – something unexpected, an accomplishment, someone you met. 
I met Chris Evans, AKA Captain America, while he was lobbying on Capitol Hill. He is super cool and it's awesome to know that he is actively supporting various important issues!

Did your internship lead to any opportunities?
Yes, I met many people that will be great supporters and mentors to my future career! I credit my time and work in D.C. to learning new and useful skills. I am proud to say that I will be interning for Kamala Harris this summer! I give great thanks to the UCDC program to teaching me valuable skills that I will use to advance further in my career. 

Share a story about something special you did in Washington – an event you attended, a place you went, an exciting talk, etc.
It was an honor to see Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. She came to our UCDC Center and answered many questions. She is an inspiring woman and it was a very cool experience to have UCDC host her! I enjoyed all of the guest speakers and forums while in D.C.

How has living in the nation’s capital for a quarter changed you? 
I loved living in D.C.!! I hope to go back after graduation. It is a city full of action, change, and the most motivated people I have ever met! Having access to so much history, culture and powerful people is something I will always be grateful for.

Do you have any advice for future UCDC students?
I strongly recommend going to all forums, events and taking advantage of the mentors present at UCDC. The connections for future careers are so valuable!