Every year, the Utah Legislature meets for 45 days to pass hundreds of bills — but lawmakers do not do it alone.
Brigham Young University has sent interns to Capitol Hill for years, typically placing more than 20 students in an immersive legislative experience each session.
Interns come from universities across the state and are usually assigned to one legislator, though some work with two.
During the seven-week session, interns work full-time, tracking bills, managing schedules, responding to constituent emails and performing other legislative duties.
“I got to sit in on her meetings and literally just see the whole process firsthand,” Senate intern Abigail Wadsworth said.
Some interns hardly ever left their legislator's side.
“It was to the point where some of the other house interns said they never saw me because I was just always with Representative Kyle,” House intern Ariana Brimhall said.
The interns learn a lot about what the Utah government really looks like behind the scenes.
“It kind of drove home the fact that it's not Congress,” Brimhall said. “It's different, and it's separate.”
Many interns found that debates on the Hill often don’t get as heated as some believe.
“Once they all get together and they're all talking and debating things, they're actually friends,” Brimhall said. “It’s really fun to see.”
Though interns do not choose their assignments, the pairings are often highly successful.
Abigail Wadsworth, who was paired with Daniellene H. Balderree, described the experience as extremely rewarding.
“She is amazing,” Wadsworth said. “I admire her so much.”
Not only do many interns enjoy their experience, they also leave with expanded networks, stronger résumés and often letters of recommendation.
“The networking helps me the most in my career, but I genuinely just liked meeting people, learning about their stories, why they were there and what motivated them to be involved,” Wadsworth said.
Interns said the experience can feel overwhelming at first, but they quickly adjust and discover there is always someone available to help.
“They give you the resources, and they have the support there to help you through all the random things that come your way,” Wadsworth said.
Students interested in participating next year can apply in the fall through the BYU College of Family, Home and Social Sciences.