Around this time last year, I was in the thick of internship applications and interviews, eagerly waiting to hear where I’d be working over the summer in Washington, DC. Looking back, it was an unforgettable experience but certainly flew by! In order to reduce stress and help maximize a short period of time, I’d recommend a few easy things you can do to make the most of your summer in DC (and elsewhere!)
Although it’s a word you’re probably tired of hearing, networking in person in DC is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Before you go, start a spreadsheet of people you’d like to connect with while you’re there, and include as much information as you’d like about them to keep yourself organized. I was in Applied Politics right before I went to DC, so there were some DC-based professionals I connected with through there that I added to my spreadsheet. It’s okay if you don’t have anyone to preemptively add, though, and that’s normal! If you want to be extra prepared, look for DC-based UGA grads on Linkedin and add them to your spreadsheet.
The UGA alumni chapter in DC is another great way you can find connections. Follow their social media to find information about networking events and opportunities. Another way to find events with fellow Georgians in DC is through the Georgia State Society, a nonprofit social organization where you’ll find many UGA alumni.
If you’ve already got someone (or multiple people) on your spreadsheet, reach out to them sooner rather than later to ensure you can find time to meet before the end of the summer! Once you meet with them, mark that along with the date you met with them on your spreadsheet in order to stay organized. As you meet new people, stay on top of adding them and their contact information in your spreadsheet so you don’t forget.
Once you begin your time in DC, make an effort to connect with coworkers, management, and fellow students. Set out time to meet with these individuals as well, and come to your meetings prepared with questions. Generic questions are always good, but if you can do some research on their background and find specific topics you’re interested in, that’s best! Stay engaged, and take notes in your spreadsheet on what you talk about – you never know when topics may come up
again, and it’s good to have this information for your future interactions.
Before you leave after your internship, make sure to take the time to thoughtfully thank anyone who had an impact on your time in DC. Handwritten cards are great, but even just a considerate text or email can help you leave a lasting impression. Let your network know what your next steps are, and check in with each connection periodically. If you can remember a specific detail about them or something you talked about together, include that when you reach back out!
Above all, allow yourself to have fun! There is so much to explore and experience in DC, and sometimes the best opportunities come from just being spontaneous and saying yes. DC is such an amazing place, and by the time you leave, like many of us, you’ll want to come back for more!
Author
Sarah Kate Maher
B.A. Political Science, B.A. Public Relations
Certificate in Public Affairs Communication
Minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the STate
University of Georgia | Morehead Honors College
