I love that I got to learn about what an alderman and their staff does for their ward. Being able to listen in on Alderman Michele's policy work and discussion with staff and others was very interesting. Particularly when she was discussing affordable housing within her ward (one of the richest wards in the city). I was also able to attend a City Council meeting where I was able to observe City Council and how their meetings go when they vote on ordinances. But the main thing was speaking to constituents and navigating them through 311 and implementing 311 requests in order to get things fixed for them and be more comfortable within their community!
What I wish was different
One of the only things I wish was that when I was offered to come back coronavirus didn't hit! I was planning to stay another month or so however, Chicago went into lockdown not too long after I was offered an extended internship. If I had to choose another thing I wish was different is I wish that I connected with staffers sooner! I did get to go on a field observation with one staffer and ask about her job, how she got to where she was, her background, and more! My regret is that I didn't get to know more of the aldermanic staff.
Advice
One piece of advice I would share is that you should try not to be too shy when speaking to the staff. I can understand it can be a little scary and you don't want to bother the staff especially if they look busy. I think sending them an email at the beginning of your internship to show your interest in you knowing them is a good idea too so they can set aside time during your internship to meet with them! I've had a handful of informational interviews and in each one, I've had wonderful conversations and learned a great deal from each and every one of them.
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Summer Intern
May - August 2019 • Chicago, IL
What I liked
I learned a lot of information about municipal codes and city protocol. I was able to attend two city council meetings and met with other Alderman and city officials. I worked frequently with a team of other interns and the full-time office staff. I had projects delegated to me. I was also able to attend community meetings.
What I wish was different
Some of the projects I worked on did not seem meaningful or relevant. I wish I had been given a long-term area or task to handle over the course of the summer, so that the roles of interns were specified and I could have invested in that specific policy area.
Advice
Be advised that the internship is unpaid and is truly at the nitty-gritty level of policymaking. Your people skills - i.e. ability to speak professionally with constituents on the phone and in person - are as important as knowledge in policy or Chicago government.
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Intern
August 2017 • Chicago, IL
What I liked
I loved how much it pertained to my major.
What I wish was different
I wish I was assigned more special events but they keep me busy!
Advice
Don't be shy when taking calls! Get all the info you can.
