Embracing New Beginnings: My Journey Through Three Weeks at Wake Washington
by Orrin Jones (’27)
I thought this would be easy: the world of politics, living in the capital of the United States, and working on the Hill. Did I mention I’m doing all of this during one of the most important election years thus far in this century?
As a military brat, I have always been used to fast-paced, rapidly changing environments. Before university, I lived in Europe and Asia for years, and I assumed I would acclimate to DC easily. I already finished my first year at Wake Forest, so I thought I was more than prepared. I have quickly found out that adulting is not an overnight process. I have never lived in a big city, and navigating the train system was a challenge. The stress of balancing the two classes and commuting to work felt overwhelming the first week, but it became less difficult the more I practiced. Another issue I had, and still have because it’s so early, is imposter syndrome. I am a sophomore – one of two in our cohort – and the youngest person working in my office, so I feel that I am inferior and underprepared compared to my seasoned counterparts. This feeling has subsided with time, but it is still a thought that comes up in classes and at events. I did not expect this anxiety, however I’ve had amazing support from the faculty in DC and Wake Forest alumni. I have realized that I deserve to be here, I was selected for a reason, and my job is to make the most of it!
I’m interning on Capitol Hill in the office of Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL 7th District). She is the only democrat representing Alabama in Congress, and her issues align nearly exactly with issues I want to work on one day – voter suppression, healthcare, infrastructure in rural areas, and redistricting. I have always had an idea of what my future will look like: going to law school after undergrad, practicing political and constitutional law, and working in underrepresented communities like the rural “Black Belt of Alabama,” the nickname for the 7th District. With that being said, I knew that I needed to engage in politics and policymaking to know for sure if this is a career I desire to pursue.
My office consists of interns and legislative staff that are no less than brilliant, hardworking, and involved. I had an initial fear that I wouldn’t have the opportunity to do much as an intern except answer phones, however, that has not been my experience. Since I have been here, I have been to receptions and other events with the staff. Most recently I attended the Alabama Power party, an exclusive event where prominent guests spoke – White House staff, mayors from across Alabama and Virginia, and former University of Alabama football coach Nick Saban. I have also attended a chairs reception and yacht party brunch where I met staff from other offices, ate amazing food (one event had a s’mores station that I was obsessed with), and took pictures with my congresswoman.
These events are not mandatory, but I found them important for networking purposes and having an idea of what life after college can look like in DC. I have had lunches with various Wake alumni working on the Hill, in lobbying firms, and who are attending law school here in DC. Their guidance has been very helpful, and I hope to remain connected with them beyond this semester. One connection I made is with Edna Ulysse (’22) who works on the Hill. She has introduced me to staff and groups like the Black Congressional Staffers.
Other than going to events, I have been able to sit in on meetings with various constituents and college executives, including some from Princeton University and the University of Alabama. My favorite meeting so far was with an education advocacy organization and superintendents from Alabama. The largescale issues on funding infrastructure and education were deep concerns, and right after the meeting I was asked to do research and ask questions to review with the legislative aide. Your job experience is what you make it, and I always try to do the best I can to help staff and the community.
Lastly, I am very excited to also knock out my DC to-do list. So far, I have gone to Virginia and Maryland to study with my roommates, and we plan to attend festivals that are coming to the area soon. There is so much to do, and I don’t want to miss anything. Each day I make it a point to see new places and try new things; call it the fear of missing out, but I also don’t want to regret not doing so, now (and at a cheaper rate), later in life. I am very excited for this adventure, and I cannot wait for the opportunities that the Wake Washington program has to offer!