Major: Political Science - Public Service

• Internship: Smithsonian Institution's Office of Sponsored Projects
• LinkedIn: Not Available
• Current Position: Not Available

Tell us about your internship – what kind of work did you do? What did you find rewarding?

At my internship, I did independent research to investigate if there was any interest in developing a program option for females, who have been formerly incarcerated, to become museum interns upon release. I contacted Smithsonian affiliate museums in California and many re-entry programs focusing on reintegration. As of yet, there are no programs, but I have been able to do research that I can bring back to California, in order to develop a program there. I have found it rewarding to be able to come home and continue my research into programs like this and possibly start something new.

Have your career or life goals changed as a result of your internship? If so, how? 

I have always wanted to open a program that would reintegrate people who have formerly been incarcerated back into our community and my internship has brought me closer to that goal.

Share an exciting memory from your internship – something unexpected, an accomplishment, someone you met. 

I was able to get a personal interview with the interns and fellows program manager at the National Museum of American History. The museum is participating in a program that is similar to the one I am doing research for. I was able to receive information on how their program started as well as how they circumvented the federal background investigation process for interns.

Share a story about something special you did in Washington – an event you attended, a place you went, an exciting talk, etc. 

I found a mentor through the UCDC program and we had a lot of things in common! She invited me to dinner in her home the day after Thanksgiving with herself and her husband; they were so kind. We had a beautiful dinner and great conversation. I thought it was very touching for her to invite me into her home for a home cooked meal since I was away from family for the holidays it really gave me something to look forward to this Thanksgiving season. I will definitely come back to DC to visit them.

How has living in the nation's capital for a quarter changed you?

I now know that I can accomplish anything that I put my mind to. I can push myself into becoming the person I know I can be. In addition, living in DC has made me proud to be an American! It was nice seeing the old architecture as well as learning about the legislation process while in DC.