Alexander Mullenix
Political Science
Federal Reserve Board of Governors
HOW HAS YOUR INTERNSHIP HELPED BUILD SKILLS AND CLARIFY YOUR CAREER GOALS?
Before interning at the Federal Reserve, I had never worked on projects that utilized datasets this massive or involved such a high degree of societal impact. This internship has given me tangible experiences, and with that a new sense of career confidence that I can harness when applying to jobs and interviewing.
HOW DO YOU APPLY YOUR LIBERAL ARTS SKILLS IN YOUR INTERNSHIP?
When analyzing regulatory data for the nation's largest banks, I have needed skills from throughout my Liberal Arts education. I've used database skills I learned in CS 235, statistical analysis from POL 300, and public policy terminology and analysis from POL 120 and 220. Every day I've utilized strategies for communication, teamwork, and time management that have been integral for success both in my classes and in my internships.
On my average day as an intern I am primarily focused on my summer long process concerning the Community Reinvestment Act, but I might have several meetings throughout the day dealing with the day to day activities of my division. The most challenging aspect of interning in the federal government is that the US government is in a state of flux and projects can change drastically at any moment. The most exciting part of my role is working at a high profile federal agency. What surprised me the most about my internship is the high level of respect and support I receive. Rather than simply assisting my superiors, they are assisting me on my independent work and giving me the tools to succeed. My most meaningful experience so far was attending the National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders Conference where I met leaders in banking, regulation, and affordable housing advocacy.