Riley Eberhardt

Major: Political Science

Legislative Intern at Office of U.S. Senator Ron Johnson

How did you learn about this internship opportunity?

I learned about this opportunity through word of mouth and research into political science internship opportunities. I knew there were opportunities for internships on Capitol Hill and Senator Ron Johnson is one of the senators from my home state of Wisconsin!

What is a piece of advice you would give someone in your major looking for an internship?

Do a lot of research and use your network. There are so many experiences out there that you can find if you use your resources and talk to a lot of people. Connect with organizations at Purdue that have other students exploring similar opportunities.

What key responsibilities or projects have you taken on during your internship?

Answered and logged constituent phone calls and directed concerns to appropriate staff members. Conducted research and wrote memos when needed on a wide range of policy issues to support legislative staff. Facilitated tours and escorts of the Capitol complex. Supported preparation for HSGAC and PSI hearings through printing, researching, organizing documents, and more.

How has your internship helped build your skills and clarify your career goals? How did being a Liberal Arts student at Purdue apply to your internship?

My internship in the Office of Senator Ron Johnson has been an incredible experience where I have strengthened both my professional and interpersonal skills while gaining hands on experience into how government functions and operates. One of the most significant skills I developed was communication. I both had to write and have conversations from a lot of different perspectives while staying professional and respectful. I also strengthened my skills in time management, organization, and adaptability. This experience has clarified my career goals by showing the impact that constituent services and good policy can have on people. Seeing this has reinforced my desire to attend law school, so I can even further understand how law and policy interact, while continuing to explore government affairs. The College of Liberal Arts at Purdue allowed me to enter my internship with strong background knowledge learned earning my political science degree. I already understood the nuances of complex issues, the American government system and institutions, as well as the basic policymaking process. This was incredibly helpful because I utilized this knowledge everyday in the Senate office. Being part of other organizations on campus and the John Martinson Honors College also strengthened my leadership and collaboration skills that allowed me to be successful in working with diverse groups of people and on diverse tasks across the office.

In what ways has the College of Liberal Arts at Purdue University supported your internship journey? How has your participation in our Job-Ready program specifically aided your professional development?

My technical and academic skills gained in the College of Liberal Arts more than prepared me for an internship in a demanding government environment. The College taught me how to analyze complex issues, write and communicate effectively, and think critically. Their commitment to job readiness was instrumental in my success throughout this experience. I am also very thankful that the College supported this opportunity through providing funding to offset the costs of relocating to Washington D.C. for the summer. Living and working in D.C. has been amazing, but it doesn't come without financial burdens and I am so grateful for the Job-Ready program's commitment to helping students focus on gaining real world experience rather than finances.

Could you highlight a standout aspect of your experience in the Job-Ready program that you find particularly noteworthy?

One aspect of the Job-Ready program that stands out the most to me is the opportunity to reflect upon my experiential learning experience to truly recognize the skills I have earned and grown. Taking time to appreciate how this experience and a Liberal Arts education combined to help me develop the skills necessary for a meaningful and successful career was really rewarding.