Arkansas Tech student Cassie Williams (photographed right) is learning firsthand about government and politics—subjects she hopes to one day teach.
Williams, a social studies secondary education major, is spending five weeks of her summer in Washington D.C. interning in the office of Arkansas Senator John. Boozman.
Williams is one of several interns from the Natural State who is working in Boozman’s office answering phones, giving tours, doing research and putting together briefs and memos.
During her five weeks in the nation’s capital, Williams hopes to gain hands-on experience in dealing with the government.
“I think having hands-on experience will make me such a better teacher,” said Williams. “I’ll be able to use real world experiences to teach instead of just having to read it out of a book.”
In addition to her work, Williams has been taking time to enjoy the sights of Washington D.C.
“I got here the day before Memorial Day, so I got to see the parade,” said Williams. “This city is the perfect place to celebrate Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, so now is the right time to be here.”
Moving to Washington D. C. has come with its share of challenges.
“Learning how to use the metro system was a little complicated,” said Williams. “I got off on the wrong stop and got really turned around.”
Williams has also had to adjust to being in a city without her friends and family.
“It’s been very liberating to go off by yourself where you don’t know anybody and just have to figure things out,” said Williams. “While here, I’ve become close with the other interns, and we have had lots of fun exploring museums and monuments together.”
Williams says she feels prepared thanks to her classes at Tech.
“All of my political science classes really taught me a lot, and it really helps to know what you’re talking about,” she explained. “All of the research I’ve done at Tech has helped me to research different topics while I’ve been here.”
Williams says living in Washington D.C. was a dream, and she hopes her story inspires other students to pursue their goals.
“When I first thought about moving to Washington D.C. for the summer, it seemed really far-fetched, but I went for it,” said Williams. “I am absolutely loving every second of it!”
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