Internship Opens Doors to Career in Federal Government

Supported by a scholarship from the Motorola Solutions Foundation, Emily’s TWC experience at the Department of Homeland Security has shown her that there are myriad of pathways to a rewarding career in the Federal Government.  

Where are you interning and what are some of your responsibilities there? 

I am currently interning at The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with the Office of Partnership and Engagement. Some of my responsibility entails connecting with academic community stakeholders and supporting institutions of higher education.

Tell us about a project you worked on during your internship that was your favorite, the most challenging, or the most exciting. 

One of the most exciting opportunities was an engagement with the Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, John Tien. I assisted Senior Executive Director Traci Silas in managing a panel of professionals to help foster engagement within the institution and our office.

How have you expanded your professional network during your time with TWC? 

My professional network has expanded tremendously throughout my journey at TWC. Thanks to the many efforts of my supervisors, I was able to explore different agencies. After hearing from so many professionals I was touched by their stories and instantly bonded by the similarities and passions. This experience not only allowed me to find a place in the federal government but also opened doors to connections that will last a lifetime.

How has this experience impacted your career goals? 

I have learned that every path into the federal government is non-linear. I originally came with the impression that all federal employees knew where they were going and how to get there, but to my surprise, many of them never expected to land in their positions. With that said, now that they have, it’s as if they could not see themselves anywhere else. After hearing that I instantly knew I wanted to pursue a future in the federal government.

What advice do you have for students considering an internship with TWC?

That’s easy… Apply, Apply, Apply! Interning with TWC can be a life-changing experience that can foster future opportunities and personal growth. After all, TWC is not just an internship but a lifestyle that will give you the ability to explore a new geography and meet amazing people from all over the world. It comes with endless benefits that you will keep for the rest of your life, so apply because a bright future awaits at TWC.

How has the support of the Motorola Solutions Foundation expanded your opportunity via TWC and career exploration? 

With Motorola's support I have been able to gain life lessons unattainable elsewhere. This was an opportunity that has also given me the ability to pursue future employment in the federal government. I am endlessly grateful for their willingness to see me succeed. Being exposed to such generosity has influenced me to continue giving back to those that have helped me along my journey. I hope to share my experiences with my community and create similar opportunities that Motorola Solutions Foundation has graciously given me. 

About the Author

The Washington Center is the largest and most established student internship program in Washington, D.C. Since our founding, we've helped more than 60,000 individuals from across the U.S. and around the globe expand their academic pursuits into rewarding jobs and careers. We use our scale and expertise to deliver solutions that open career pathways for learners, solve recruitment challenges for employers, while helping create greater access, equity, advancement and representation.

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