🌟 Eagle Intern Spotlight 🌟
Meet Eliana Dente, SPA/BA '25, a Fall 2024 Operations Intern with the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.
Q: What does your day to day look like as the Operations Intern?
A: My day-to-day involves a mix of engaging with different staff members at the DCCC, participating in workshops, and working on projects like data compliance, quality control, and race tracking. I also enjoy curating a list of fun activities in Washington D.C. each month for staffers and interns to explore!
Q: What do you love most about your internship?
A: What I love most is the sense of purpose I feel every day. It’s incredibly fulfilling to contribute to causes I deeply believe in, alongside a team that’s not only professional but also genuinely kind and supportive. There’s something special about working in an environment where you’re excited to go to work, even to the point where taking a sick day feels like a missed opportunity. It’s both rewarding and motivating to be part of something so impactful.
Q: What career advice would you give to your fellow Eagles?
A: My advice is to stay resilient and trust that you’ll end up where you’re meant to be. Sometimes, the path you envision for yourself isn’t the one you’re ultimately meant to follow, and that’s okay. Don’t be afraid to pivot and try something new. Changing my second major to Political Science during the fall of my junior year turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made. Remember, sometimes things have to fall apart for even better things to come together.
Q: Is there someone you would like to thank in the AU Community?
A: I’d like to thank my amazing advisor, Amelia Graber-Lipperman, whose guidance was crucial in helping me navigate my academic journey and meet my graduation requirements. In moments of uncertainty, she provided steady support and invaluable advice. I’d also like to thank the exceptional School of Public Affairs, American University professors—Professor Boyle, Professor Major-Ryan, Professor Ropelewski, Professor Del Pino, Professor Iwama, Professor DiBella, Professor Suhay, and Professor Montgomery—who have challenged me in ways that expanded my understanding of the world. Finally, I’m grateful to my fellow SPA students who elected me as their Undergraduate Council President. Their faith in me has shown me the true value of leadership and inspires me every day to be better.