Working in the United States Capitol as an intern is an extraordinary experience that has given me the opportunity to see the ins and outs of an important branch of government. As an intern on the Hill, I have gained knowledge of how our government operates and skills that are beneficial for any career or experience I may endeavor in the future. Working in Senator Shaheen’s office, I was recently fortunate enough to have the chance to shadow the Senator for a day. This experience gave me just an idea on how hard the Senator works to best represent the people of New Hampshire.

My first appointment in the morning was a meeting with Senator Shaheen and her New Hampshire and D.C. staff members. Not only was I able to see how well the staff worked together to be sure the office was running smoothly, but it was the perfect opportunity for me to see how Senator Shaheen interacts with the office. It was not a surprise that the relationship between the Senator and the staff was one that was easy-going, genuine, and friendly.

After making our way from the office to the Senate floor, Senator Shaheen’s next step in the day was the roll call vote on the Sportsmen’s Act—legislation to protect and enhance opportunities for recreational hunting, fishing, and shooting. Immediately after the Senator voted, she continued her busy day back at her office.

I had the opportunity to see the Senator speak at the Senate Committee on Armed Services Nomination Hearing where she asked Marine Corps General Joseph Dunford Jr. questions to be sure he was well-qualified for reappointment. Senator Shaheen spoke very professionally and I am sure others in the room could tell she has had many years of experience with public speaking. I was also impressed how knowledgeable she was in all the current foreign events.

Later in the afternoon, Senator Shaheen provided a highlight for Sunapee Middle School students when she met with their group to take a picture with them. The students were to meet Senator Shaheen and grateful the opportunity to have their photographs taken with her.

My day was coming to an end with the last meeting. Senator Shaheen was meeting with a group called Voices of Progress to discuss the current budget negotiations. I especially enjoyed this meeting, not only because the fiscal cliff has become a prominent topic in the media, but also because the economy has become an interest of mine that I have enjoyed studying.

This meeting gave me the perspective of how different types of groups lobby Congress to support or oppose legislation that might impact their interests. I was impressed that Senator Shaheen stood firm that everyone will have to make sacrifices to reach a compromise and find a solution for the upcoming fiscal cliff. With such polarized views in Congress, it was reassuring that the Senator encouraged a solution that will bring both parties to an agreement to resolve our current economic dilemma.

Shadowing the Senator made my internship on the Hill all the more valuable. Being able to actually experience government first hand, rather than learning about it in a classroom, has made me realize how involved a senator’s job is. In one day Senator Shaheen interacted with all different kinds of people: her staff members, colleagues, interest groups, and most importantly, her constituents. After the Senator spoke with the middle school students, I could tell that one of the many rewards of her job was being able to represent the people of New Hampshire.

-          Kenna Cole is from Loudon, NH and a freshman at American University studying International Business and Economics. Some of her interests include gymnastics, watching the Three Stooges, and spending time with family and friends.

This is part of  INTERN CORNER. If you or someone you know is interested in interning in Senator Shaheen's New Hampshire or Washington office, see here for more information: http://shaheen.senate.gov/services/internships/