Networking Opportunities Throughout D.C.-Based Internship Fuels University of Arkansas at Little Rock Student’s Professional Dreams

Janiya Pettus, a political science major at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, undertook an internship journey with National Association of Federally Impacted Schools (NAFIS) during the Fall 2023 semester at The Washington Center (TWC). Her experience serves as a testament to the transformative power of experiential learning. It highlights the importance of internships in honing leadership skills, expanding professional networks and shaping future career paths. Her work not only helped shape her future professional path, but it also contributed meaningful value to the education of historically marginalized communities.

Where did you intern and what were some of your responsibilities there?

I interned with the National Association of Federally Impacted Schools (NAFIS), and some of my responsibilities included supporting the communications department with advocacy efforts for Impact Aid. Occasionally, I attended several Congressional hearings and briefings surrounding K-12 education that benefited NAFIS, and I also participated in the planning of their fall conference, which happened to be their 50th anniversary advocating for Impact Aid. During my internship, I had the opportunity to schedule a Capitol Hill meeting with the staff of Arkansas Senator, John Boozman.

What project stood out to you as rewarding?

A project from my internship that stood out to me was my personal project that I was able to conduct through the lens of Transitional Justice (TJ). I provided a comprehensive analysis of states California and Texas test scores, high school graduation rates, the NAEP Nation’s Report Card results and an interview with a California Superintendent, in a post-COVID context, to the framework of TJ.

In what ways have you expanded your professional network during your time with TWC?

I was able to expand my professional network during my time at TWC through the network sessions that were offered through the career readiness program. I was also able to expand my network, through the NAFIS Conference, and informational interviews. I interviewed Criminal Defense Attorney Mr. Colin Dunham, who offered insight and tips in his career field. Dr. Venetia Waters, Department of Defense, State Liaison Program Manager provided me with comprehension of her career, as well as motivation to strive for my career goals. Mrs. Sherlie Jordan, a Retired Public School Teacher who described her pathway and passion for a career that was best fit.

How has this experience influenced your career goals?

This experience has influenced my career goals by allowing me to see a visible scope of the possibilities that I can accomplish. One of my goals is to become an attorney, and eventually open up a non-profit organization in my hometown prioritizing marginalized youth. TWC allowed me to gain knowledge in each component of my goals, as well as networking opportunities with individuals in similar fields of my career goals.

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

Take advantage of the full experience and never limit yourself. Stay focused, strive for the best and live in the moment; Once you're in there, it goes by quickly and you will fall in love! Don’t worry if your career goals are not concrete yet, the experience and each of its components will allow you to shape an idea of a future fulfilling your goals.

How did scholarships and financial support enhance your experience?

The support of the Arkansas State Scholarship and TWC’s Housing Scholarship enhanced my opportunities through TWC and my career exploration by allowing me to experience a dream come true. I was able to expand my knowledge in my personal and professional development, that I didn’t know I needed---that I am now able to build upon. The support allowed me to experience an environment I only yearned for through my learning experiences from history books. Additionally, I had the opportunity to apply hands-on experience from UA-Little Rock to real-world work experiences, in the capital of political science. The support allowed me to create a foundation of how I would like to meet some of my career goals, and I am forever grateful for it.

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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