Pathfinders Congressional Internship & Leadership Initiative

My internship in a congressional office gave me a firsthand look at how legislation actually moves, something no classroom could fully teach. I spent my time researching and writing cosponsorship recommendation memos on a wide range of bills, which meant learning to quickly get up to speed on complex issues, weigh credible sources, and present clear recommendations to staff and the Member. Seeing how a single Dear Colleague letter turns into research, internal debate, and ultimately a decision showed me just how much groundwork goes into a single vote or cosponsorship. This experience sharpened my research and writing skills and gave me a much deeper appreciation for the people and process behind policymaking.

I was fascinated by the idea of a program that combined two of my greatest passions – an interest in government and my own culture. The training sessions were one of the most informative and eye-opening experiences I’ve had, exploring topics like government, history, and philosophy.

Most importantly, I learned how the culture I’ve been brought up in already contains and embodies the dharma, or duty. The most memorable part of the experience was the in-person program in D.C., where I was able to meet, collaborate with, and learn from other students.

By the end of the Pathfinders program, I gained many new skills. I learned how to interpret policy and legislation beyond its surface-level intent, advocate for the interests of the Hindu community, and gained the confidence to apply these skills beyond the program. These skills and knowledge helped me contribute more meaningfully to my summer internship, empowering me as a Hindu student interested in public service. I am incredibly grateful to the Pathfinders team for this opportunity, and for their continued support even after the program.

Pathfinders was a great experience. It was lovely being able to learn so much about Hinduism from so many experts, and it deepened my knowledge of my religion to a point I didn’t know I had. The program also combined that with deepening my political knowledge, through courses on rudimentary government operations as well as talks by experts, including Members of Congress.

Pathfinders was also able to flag some Congressmen for me so I could reach out, and I ultimately was able to get a great internship on the Hill. While completing the program, the Pathfinders team would have weekly check-ins for us, where we could talk with other fellows and discuss what we were doing in our internships, what kind of things we learned, and so on. It was a fun and engaging way to stay connected with the fellows and also review your week on the Hill.

Overall, I would recommend the Pathfinders program because of the in-depth learning and deepening of my knowledge of Hinduism, as well as giving me a real boost in not only landing but making the most of my internship on the Hill.