After earning an undergraduate degree in physics and math, with a minor in chemistry, I’ve just begun my first year in law school. It’s off to a great start!

My internship at the House Science Committee this summer has already proved to be extremely beneficial for my law studies. Research assignments, office memo writing, meeting updates, and outreach/interviews—all key parts of my legal writing and research classes—have been made easier by the experience I gained this summer. There is always a learning curve when applying skills learned in the classroom to real world situations. But it’s immensely helpful that I’ve come to school with a handle on the basics and experience with utilizing them in a fast-paced work environment.

I’m sure my experience this summer will continue to have a great impact on my future plans as well. It introduced me to many career options, opportunities, and great networking contacts. I learned so much about the legislative process and congressional staff duties, as well as how each person truly can have a significant influence. My internship made me eager to be in a position where I can effect change and make a difference. I’m looking forward to these next 3 years and to seeing what the future has in store!

MORE INFORMATION

For more information about Sanford and her experiences as an intern, visit her SPS internship journal at www.aps.org/units/fps/newsletters/201404/internship.cfm.

To learn more about the Mather Policy Internship program, as well as other internships managed by the Society of Physics Students, visit www.spsnational.org/programs/internships/.