Washington, D.C. - Rep. David Price (D-NC) has welcomed five students to his office for a six-week internship. The students are the first of two groups of interns that will participate in the Congressman's summer internship program.

"As a former educator, I know there's a lot of value in learning by doing," Rep. Price said. "These young people have studied political science and public policy in the classroom, and now they are going to be able to experience the workings of Capitol Hill firsthand. I hope we'll inspire at least a few of them to pursue a career in public service!"

Below is information about each intern, including a quote about what the students hope to learn while working in Washington.

Peter Alfredson of Raleigh, NC. Peter is a rising sophomore at UNC-Chapel Hill double majoring in Political Science and Russian Culture.

"I hope to better understand how the legislative process works and how Congressman Price and his staff balance the many important issues that our country is facing right now. I am excited to work for Congressman Price because he is a strong voice for North Carolina and a progressive leader on so many issues. I am a political science major so this experience is helping me to better understand the things I am learning in the classroom."

Lauren Hovis of Pfafftown, NC. Lauren is a rising junior at UNC-Chapel Hill majoring in Political Science and International Studies with a minor in Dramatic Art.

"I am excited to work for Congressman Price because he has proven to be a true public servant to the 4th district. I have enjoyed being a part of his office because it has given me a first-hand account of how constituents' issues are being eloquently addressed by Rep. Price's staff. I have also learned the ins and outs of the Capitol and I absolutely love the busy, productive atmosphere here."

Korey Mercer of Durham, NC. Korey is a rising junior at North Carolina Central University majoring in Political Science with a minor in Spanish.

"I am so enthused to work in Congressman David Price's Office this summer. As a proud constituent of Rep. Price's, I am grateful for this opportunity to experience life on Capitol Hill. This internship will give me a firsthand look at different policies that are affecting me as a student and will allow me to gain valuable skills that will help me as I pursue a career in public service."

Richard Alan Mitchell of Cary, NC. Richard is a rising senior at Pomona College majoring in Economics.

"I have applied economics to public policy in a classroom setting, and working in Congressman Price's office I hope that I will learn how economic intuition informs legislation. I am excited to work for Mr. Price because he is a clear example of enlightened leadership who is deeply involved with his constituency."

Olivia Hammill of Raleigh, NC. Olivia is a rising senior at UNC-Chapel Hill majoring in Political Science and Peace War and Defense with a minor in History.

"I've learned about the political process in the classroom, so the opportunity to witness it first-hand is unlike any other. Congressman Price has a history of representing the needs of the people of North Carolina, and I'm very much looking forward to working with him and his staff this summer."

Above photo: (from left to right) Korey Mercer, NCCU, rising junior; Peter Alfredson, UNC-CH, rising sophomore; Olivia Hammill, UNC-CH, rising senior; Lauren Hovis, UNC-CH, rising junior; Alan Mitchell, Pomona College, rising senior.

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