Korryn Penner’s Experience With The Washington Center Internship
I had the amazing opportunity this summer, to spend it doing an internship in D.C. Before this, I had never been to D.C. and this was an amazing introduction to the district. I was surrounded by history, both past and in the making, and it was awe-inspiring. If there is one thing I learned during my internship, it is this: there are so many ways to use a history degree. Almost every professional connection I made there knew, or was, a history major. Before going to D.C. never realized just how many transferable skills this degree gives me, but it was eye-opening to see the possibilities that await history majors. I had the privilege of interning with DACOR and the DACOR Bacon House foundation, which is a historic house with an interest in foreign affairs, and located a block away from the White House. It was part of my intern responsibilities to learn the history of the house and to help incorporate it into the planning of their bicentennial events. I felt like I was using my degree professionally, in an area I never would have thought possible before. When I arrived in Washington, it hit me that I might be the odd one out with a history degree and not a political science one. However, I quickly learned this was not the case, and two other interns also had degrees in history. All of the interns at DACOR became quick friends, and I still talk with most of them to this day. I never imagined I would have friends all around the States, but after this internship program, I do. The Washington Center was a true professional experience. By month two, I felt like a natural, and secure in my own professional life—even if just for a brief time. I learned so much about the practical application of my degree and skills. But, I also learned so much about myself, and how I carry myself in a professional environment. I have truly nothing to compare this experience to, and it was an amazing leap out of my comfort zone and into a possible future life.
-Korryn Penner