As a Policy and Government Affairs Intern, Public Policy BDP student Ashley Smith experienced how non-governmental organizations (NGOs) impact the public policy process through her work with plastics-related legislation.
"I gained a better understanding of how government relations teams at NGOs interact with the public, other NGOs, and government officials to drive their agenda.”
Where did you intern?
I interned at the World Wildlife Fund in Washington D.C.
How did you find this internship?
I found this opportunity through Indeed.
What kind of work did you do as an intern?
As a Policy & Government Affairs Intern at World Wildlife Fund (WWF), I tracked federal and state plastics-related legislation and hearings, drafted social media posts and email alerts to engage WWF supporters, and coordinated logistics for WWF's Lobby Day and Plastic Policy Summit. I also drafted written testimony and public comments to share WWF's perspective on various bills and rulemakings at both the state and federal level.
What was the most rewarding aspect of your Connecting Experience?
The most rewarding aspect of my time at World Wildlife Fund was being able to experience first-hand how non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can impact the public policy process. I gained a better understanding of how government relations teams at NGOs interact with the public, other NGOs, and government officials to drive their agenda. An added benefit of this Connecting Experience was getting to see how my interests in public policy and sustainability can complement one another.
In what ways has this Connecting Experience shaped your plans for the future?
I am now incredibly interested in a career in government relations, specifically for an environmental NGO. I became much more knowledgeable about plastic pollution through my Connecting Experience, and I am now planning to write my senior thesis on the topic. My work on plastic pollution also inspired me to work as a Zero Waste Intern through UT this summer.