At the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK), summer breaks have become a transformative period for political science students eager to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world governance, offering them a unique chance to grow. For individuals like Sam Schroeder, Connie Gassaway, and Alex Abels, internships in state and federal government offices have provided an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the legislative process. From the Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln to the historic halls of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., these students have engaged directly with policymaking, constituent services, and the inner workings of public administration. Their journeys reveal not only the practical skills gained but also the profound personal and professional growth that comes from stepping into such dynamic roles. This exploration into their experiences highlights how hands-on opportunities in government settings are shaping the next generation of leaders, providing insights that textbooks alone cannot deliver.
Diving into Real-World Governance
The opportunity to work within government offices offers UNK students a firsthand look at the legislative process, far surpassing the scope of traditional academic learning. Sam Schroeder, a senior and student body president, spent his internship in the Nebraska Governor’s Office in Lincoln, where he managed constituent inquiries and prepared civic honors under Gov. Jim Pillen. This role allowed him to see the direct impact of state-level decisions on everyday citizens. His daily tasks provided a practical understanding of how policies are shaped and implemented, revealing both the potential and the limitations of governmental action. Such immersion helped translate abstract concepts into tangible outcomes, offering a perspective that deepens appreciation for the complexities of governance. For Schroeder, this was not just a job but a window into the operational heartbeat of state administration, equipping him with skills that align closely with his future ambitions in law.
Equally impactful were the experiences of Connie Gassaway and Alex Abels, who navigated federal government environments with similar dedication. Gassaway, a sophomore, split her internship between the Grand Island and Washington, D.C., offices of U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith, engaging with constituents and attending legislative briefings. Her role exposed her to the nuances of federal representation and the importance of addressing local concerns on a national stage. Meanwhile, Abels, a junior, interned with U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer in D.C., assisting with constituent calls and supporting the press team. His involvement in these tasks illuminated the fast-paced nature of federal operations and the critical role of communication in public service. Both students found that stepping into these environments brought their studies to life, transforming theoretical knowledge into actionable insights that will inform their future paths in advocacy and law.
Forging Professional Pathways
One of the most significant benefits of these internships lies in the professional networks they help build, serving as crucial stepping stones for career advancement. For Sam Schroeder, who aspires to become a rural attorney, the time spent in the Governor’s Office provided not only policy research experience but also mentorship from UNK alumni in the legal field. These relationships offered guidance and a glimpse into the realities of practicing law in rural Nebraska, reinforcing his career direction. The connections made during this period are likely to prove invaluable as he navigates the next steps toward his professional goals. Beyond the tasks themselves, the opportunity to interact with seasoned professionals in a real-world setting underscored the importance of mentorship in shaping a successful trajectory in public service and beyond.
Similarly, Connie Gassaway and Alex Abels reaped the benefits of networking in their respective federal internships. Gassaway, with ambitions in public administration and environmental advocacy, forged meaningful ties with staff in Rep. Smith’s offices, relationships that could open doors to future opportunities in her field. Her interactions provided a foundation for understanding how to navigate governmental structures effectively. Abels, aiming for a career as a health care attorney, found that working in Sen. Fischer’s D.C. office pushed him to refine his communication skills while connecting with like-minded professionals. These experiences emphasized the value of building a network early on, as the contacts and insights gained during these internships are poised to influence their career journeys. The professional bonds formed in such settings highlight how internships serve as launchpads for long-term success in competitive fields.
Embracing Personal Transformation
Beyond professional gains, these internships challenged UNK students to grow personally, adapting to new environments and broadening their perspectives. Connie Gassaway discovered a deep sense of fulfillment in leading Capitol tours in D.C., where personal interactions with Nebraskans added a heartfelt layer to her work. These moments of connection with visitors underscored the human element of government service, reminding her of the real people behind policy decisions. Her time split between local and national offices also taught her to navigate diverse settings with flexibility, a skill that will undoubtedly serve her in future endeavors. This personal dimension of her internship enriched her understanding of public service as not just a career but a commitment to community, shaping her outlook in profound ways.
For Alex Abels and Sam Schroeder, personal growth came through unique experiences that stretched their comfort zones. Abels cherished the cultural immersion of living in D.C., with events like Fourth of July celebrations and visits to historic landmarks complementing his professional duties. These experiences broadened his worldview, adding depth to his internship beyond office walls. Schroeder, meanwhile, gained a unique vantage point on state governance through high-profile tasks like escorting foreign dignitaries during events in Lincoln. Such responsibilities fostered resilience and confidence, as he adapted to the demands of representing state interests in formal settings. Together, these personal challenges and enriching moments highlight how government internships shape not only careers but also character, preparing students for the multifaceted nature of public life.
Connecting Internships to Future Ambitions
A notable aspect of these internships is how closely they align with each student’s long-term career goals, reflecting a strategic approach to professional development. Sam Schroeder’s focus on state-level policy in the Governor’s Office directly supports his aspiration to practice law in rural Nebraska, providing relevant experience in understanding local governance issues. His role offered insights into the legal and policy frameworks that impact smaller communities, aligning perfectly with his vision of serving such areas. This targeted experience ensures that the skills and knowledge gained are not just general but specifically tailored to the challenges he anticipates in his future career, making the internship a critical building block in his journey toward becoming an attorney.
Connie Gassaway and Alex Abels also found their internships to be stepping stones toward their envisioned futures. Gassaway’s exposure to legislative issues through Rep. Smith’s offices fuels her passion for advocacy and city management, offering practical experience in how policies are crafted and communicated at both local and national levels. This dual perspective equips her with a comprehensive understanding vital for her ambitions. Abels, immersed in federal processes with Sen. Fischer, gained insights directly applicable to his goal of entering health care law, learning the intricacies of federal operations that often intersect with health policy. Both students demonstrate how choosing internships aligned with specific career paths maximizes their impact, turning temporary roles into foundational experiences that will guide their professional pursuits in the years ahead.
Highlighting the Human Element in Public Service
A recurring theme across these internship experiences is the critical role of interpersonal skills in effective governance, a lesson that resonates deeply with each student. Whether addressing constituent concerns or collaborating with office staff, the importance of building rapport became evident as a cornerstone of public service. For instance, handling inquiries and concerns required not just procedural knowledge but also empathy and clear communication to ensure citizens felt heard. This focus on human connection revealed that policies and procedures are ultimately about serving people, a realization that adds depth to the technical aspects of government work. Such skills, honed through direct interaction, are essential for any career in public administration or law, emphasizing that relationships drive impact.
Moreover, mentorship and teamwork within office environments further underscored the value of human bonds in professional settings. Learning from experienced colleagues and navigating team dynamics taught these students how collaboration shapes successful outcomes in government roles. The guidance received from mentors provided not only technical know-how but also insights into maintaining professionalism under pressure. These experiences collectively highlight that while policies and laws form the framework of governance, it’s the ability to connect with others—be it constituents, peers, or leaders—that truly enables meaningful change. As these students move forward, the emphasis on interpersonal engagement will remain a guiding principle, ensuring they approach their future roles with a balanced focus on both strategy and humanity.
Reflecting on Transformative Lessons
Looking back, the summer internships of UNK students Sam Schroeder, Connie Gassaway, and Alex Abels stand as pivotal chapters in their academic and professional journeys. Their time in government offices, whether at the state or federal level, offered a rare blend of practical learning, networking, and personal development that reshaped their understanding of public service. Each challenge faced and connection made during those months contributed to a stronger foundation for their future endeavors. Moving forward, the insights gained from navigating real-world governance should inspire other students to seek similar opportunities, recognizing the value of stepping beyond the classroom. As the landscape of public administration and law continues to evolve, fostering programs that provide such immersive experiences will be key to preparing the next wave of dedicated professionals ready to tackle society’s pressing issues with skill and empathy.
