Seven students complete summer internships, applications open for fall and spring
Washington, D.C. – Seven college students, including four North Dakotans, are completing summer internships with Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) in Washington, D.C., gaining diverse perspectives on the inner workings of Congress, the legislative process, constituent services, and the federal government as a whole.
The interns include:
Autumn Ketterling of Bismarck, ND.
Audrey Duppong of Mandan, ND.
Kayla Barral of Flaxton, ND.
Zoe McKinven of Harvey, ND.
Will Specht of Howard County, MD.
Jackson Leonard of Arlington, VA.
Robin Reid of Perkasie, PA.
“This group of bright, hardworking interns were a great addition to our team in Washington,” Fedorchak said. “Each of them brought energy, insight, and a strong North Dakota work ethic to the office. From researching legislation and attending committee hearings to helping with constituent services and giving Capitol tours, they were integral to our daily work. I’m proud of their contributions and can’t wait to see what they do next.”
Internships are available for the fall and spring semesters in the Washington, Bismarck, and Fargo offices. University students and recent graduates are encouraged to apply here. Preference is given to residents of North Dakota or individuals enrolled in a North Dakota school.
The Washington, D.C. summer internship program gives students firsthand experience in the legislative process and a front-row seat to the inner workings of Congress. Interns also gain valuable insight into public service careers and how North Dakota values are represented on the national stage.
In addition to their work in the office, interns attended a wide range of educational and professional events including speaking engagements, policy briefings, and networking receptions with Hill staff and leaders across government. They also continued their education beyond the Capitol—touring the White House, the Pentagon, FBI Headquarters, the Norwegian Embassy, and many of the Smithsonian museums.
Autumn Ketterling, a Bismarck, ND native and student at the University of North Dakota: “Working with Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak has been an incredible experience, and I’m truly grateful for all the opportunities it has provided me with. It was inspiring to see how committed Julie and her team are to serving North Dakota. This experience gave me a valuable look into the inner workings of government and just how much hard work goes into it. Every day taught me something new that I’ll carry with me going forward.”
Audrey Duppong, a Mandan, ND native and student at Bismarck State College: "I enjoyed working for Julie’s team because of the amazing relationships and friendships I have established. The team here is awesome to work with, and I am excited to see everyone again sometime in my career and what we all end up doing! My favorite duty was giving tours of the Capitol building to our awesome constituents.”
Kayla Barral, a Flaxton, ND native and student at the University of North Dakota: “My favorite part about the internship was all the opportunities that were open to interns! Whether it’s lectures, sitting in on meetings and hearings, or attending receptions and briefings, there were always interesting events to attend during this internship.
Working with Rep. Julie Fedorchak's team was an amazing experience. Julie's workplace was such a positive, encouraging, and helpful environment, and I absolutely loved working with everyone on her team.”
Zoe McKinven, a Harvey, ND native and recent graduate of North Dakota State University: “My favorite thing about this internship was the people! The staff are so welcoming, willing to teach, and approachable. It really felt like a North Dakota office. What I learned on the Hill is all of the behind-the-scenes work done in D.C. In school, you learn about how a bill becomes law and eventually makes its way to the President's desk. But here, I have seen everything that goes into that process. I enjoy working for Julie's team because every day that I come to work, I feel like my work matters. Whether that’s communicating with constituents or writing a policy memo, I know real change is made on Capitol Hill.”
Will Specht, student at Virginia Tech from Howard County, Maryland: “Throughout my internship on Capitol Hill, I have been fortunate enough to be a part of many amazing experiences. Some of these have included a tour of the FBI headquarters and the West Wing of the White House. Another favorite of mine, perhaps the most community-building event, was attending the Congressional baseball and softball games. I couldn’t have asked for a more thoughtful, accommodating, and welcoming office environment. It has been a pleasure to work for Representative Fedorchak, and I have loved every minute of my time here!”
Jackson Leonard, student at Arizona State University from Arlington, Virginia: “Working with Rep. Fedorchak taught me important lessons about accountability in Congress. Seeing how much effort Rep. Fedorchak puts forward to understand her constituents has set a new standard of expectations for myself and my representatives in government.”
Robin Reid, student at the University of Alabama from Perkasie, Pennsylvania: “My favorite part about the internship was learning about agricultural policy alongside our Legislative Director. I had the opportunity to learn so much from behind the scenes on something I am passionate about!”
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