Originally published on the CGS blog on July 28, 2011.
When I accepted the position as a Government Relations Research Associate at CGS, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. I had a deep interest in domestic politics and had previously interned on Capitol Hill, but I wasn’t acquainted with a lot of the issues that CGS works on.
Before I started at CGS, I was more concerned with what was happening in Washington D.C. than what was happening outside of it. After interning at CGS, I realize there is a lot more that goes on than the largely partisan politics that are debated daily on Capitol Hill.
Working here during the summer of 2011 has been especially interesting, considering all that has happened in the realm of international relations. From the Arab Spring to the independence of South Sudan, I have thoroughly enjoyed learning about these transformative events.
During my internship, I attended events sponsored by the Brookings Institution, the U.S. Institute for Peace, and the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition. I have heard a fascinating variety of speakers including French Foreign Minister Alain Juppe, Senator John Kerry, and Secretary Clinton. Washington D.C. is a fascinating place to work because there is so much to do and learn in this city.
Being in Washington D.C. also means that we are able to appeal to legislators on Capitol Hill. One of my main responsibilities involved scheduling and attending meetings with congressional staffers regarding UN funding. I gained valuable experience persuading congressional staffers that the United Nations is a worthwhile investment. During these less than ideal economic times, it seems that legislators on both sides of the aisle are targeting the international affairs budget. What they fail to understand is that our international affairs spending amounts to a little over 1% of the federal budget. I’m glad that I could play a role in helping those on Capitol Hill to realize the vital importance of paying our dues to the UN.
Although I enjoyed attending every lobbying meeting, the best part at working at CGS is the staff. I want to especially thank Melissa Kaplan, CGS’ Deputy Director of Government Relations, for allowing me to attend meetings with her and for teaching me more about the legislative process. Also, I want to thank CEO Don Kraus, who has likewise taught me a great deal about international affairs issues and has been extremely gracious to me during my internship. Also, I am extremely grateful to the rest of the staff for welcoming me into their office. I also want to thank the other CGS research associates: Carly, Sarah, Lauren, Arielle, and Lara. They are all fascinating people with bright futures ahead of them.
Working at CGS has been extremely rewarding. I have gained valuable experience and learned all about important global issues and how they can be solved. CGS surpassed my expectations and I am happy to say that I could play even a small part in the great things that they do every day.
