Interning at the U.S. Committee on Oversight and Accountability—Democrat in the Rayburn Office Building has been an engaging and impactful experience, allowing me to immerse myself in the mechanisms of governance while advocating for the rights and needs of constituents. As part of this respected committee, I've been tasked with a variety of responsibilities that have given me notable insights into the legislative process and the intricacies of public oversight.
My day-to-day tasks begin with checking emails and corresponding with various stakeholders involved in ongoing investigations or policy discussions. This includes communicating with witnesses, drafting investigative reports, and gathering necessary documentation for upcoming oversight hearings. My research work has involved meticulously compiling relevant data on pressing policy issues, helping to create a robust foundation for our committee's hearings. I often engage in drafting and editing correspondence, reports, and briefing materials for committee members, which requires attention to detail and clarity in presentation. These materials are vital for informed discussions during meetings and ensure that our messaging to the public is coherent and accurate. Coordinating logistics for committee meetings has also been a significant aspect of my internship. From scheduling and agenda preparation to assisting with witness arrangements, I have learned the importance of clear communication and organization within a high-stakes environment. Each week, I participate in strategy sessions where team members brainstorm and provide input on our approach to various issues. These sessions have opened my eyes to the thoughtful intricacies that go into governmental oversight, underscoring the significant responsibility we have toward our constituents and the importance of transparent governance.
One memorable event occurred during a busy week when the committee was preparing for a high-profile hearing that took place in Maui, unfortunately I was not able to go. It happened that I missed my bus and panicked for a brief moment, quickly realizing that the same amount of time that would go into waiting for the next bus I could walk to work and be on time, UCDC building is relatively accessible to a lot of our internships which is quite walkable. Inside Rayburn you will be surprised at the attire you see, some individuals dressed in everything from fancy suits to surprising swim trunks and flip-flops. While we were expected to dress more formally during sessions, the casual vibe outside committee hours paired with D.C.'s vibrant atmosphere reminded me that politics can indeed be a lively and comfortable place to work. Living and studying with a diverse group of students from across the University of California system at the UC Washington Center has been a unique experience. The living accommodations are conveniently located, making it easy to explore various parts of the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area.
Networking has played a pivotal role during my internship. I had the opportunity to participate in numerous coffee chats and meetings with professionals in the political sphere, including a discussion with a former campaign manager for Kamala Harris. While I was offered to join her campaign for its final leg, I ultimately declined as it conflicted with my internship commitments and my preparations for graduate school exams. This decision taught me the importance of prioritizing and balancing opportunities, especially in a fast-paced environment like Washington D.C.
Living in D.C. has provided incredible access to museums and historical sites that have significantly enriched my experience. I’ve visited the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, which was a deeply moving acknowledgment of the ongoing quest for civil rights. I plan to visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture soon, with a sense of anticipation in exploring the narratives and histories that shape our nation. Beyond professional development and historical explorations, I’ve also discovered some of my favorite spots in the city. One such gem is "A League of Her Own," a relaxed dive bar that caters to the queer community. It offers just the right ambiance for someone like me, who is neurodivergent and often prefers low-key environments. I will add, if your birthday happens to come around the time of your stay, take advantage of all the great culinary and the Cheesecake Factory.