If you’ve ever had any interest in policy work or government work, and you’ve had a natural interest, then the internship is the best place to start. You’ll be able to get a different perspective and able to understand the how and why of how things come together. You can build on smaller questions, which become bigger questions.
The beauty of the internship is that you get to try everything. You’ll pick up a lot and learn a lot about yourself in the process. The internship is the one year that you get to explore all the areas and what that means. There’s no pressure to be specific or focus on anything.
Everyone is so friendly here, don’t be shy. If someone’s career trajectory is interesting, have a chat with them. Ask people you’re interested in ‘How did you get here, what was your journey?’ People are very good at giving you their networks, helping you navigate that space and extending whatever networks they have to you. You can absorb as much as you are willing to absorb.
You’re really well supported, everyone is really friendly and willing to give advice and impart their wisdom. They are willing to guide you on the harder skills, like how to publish, and you get to explore areas you find interesting. Policy was really supportive in having your name on publications, and I have my name on four publications because of being here.