From Classroom to Capitol: Makayla Paris’s Legislative Experience

Makayla Paris is not just studying policy, she is already inside the process, working where Tennessee’s biggest decisions are made.

Through the Tennessee Legislative Internship Program (TLIP), Paris, a junior public affairs major, is one of six University of Tennessee students selected to work full time in Nashville during the spring legislative session. The program, run collaboratively by the General Assembly places students directly inside legislative offices, offering a front row seat to how policy is shaped in real time. 

Joining the Baker school in its early formation, she found more than just a new academic path. She found a community. Faculty, advisors, and peers helped her navigate a large university while building a strong foundation in policy that prepared her for this moment. 

At the state capitol, Paris worked alongside Representative Justin Lafferty, contributing to constituent services and everyday operations of the office. Extending beyond administrative work, she gained greater insight of how legislation moves from idea to implementation through committee involvement and hands on exposure. 

“It has given me a deeper understanding of what’s usually motivating certain policy choices,” Paris said. “Like what kind of needs a region may have and why their representative pushes for certain legislation or how lobbying plays a role in even state level policy.”

Her role has also pushed her to grow in unexpected ways. Interacting with voters and lobbyists to collaborate with legislative staff, Paris has strengthened her ability to communicate, connect, and ability to adapt in fast paced environments. 

“You see everyone, from constituents to lobbyists to other members, so I’ve gotten experience in selling myself while still meaningfully connecting with others,” she said. 

While the professional exposure has been impactful, it is the people who have left the largest impression. 

“My most memorable moment has honestly been meeting the other interns and people in my office,” Paris said. “I’ve met such a diverse range of people that has shown me just how much I can learn, not only professionally, but from my peers.”

Through long days at the capitol, committee hearings, and conversations that go beyond policy, Paris has come to see public service in a broader light. The experience reinforced her interest in government, and expanded her understanding of the many paths within it.

Maintaining her momentum, Paris will begin a position with Big Brothers Big Sisters this summer. Providing statewide policy strategy she will emphasize the importance of supporting youth development through mentorship and programming.  

As she looks ahead, Paris remains focused on her goal of serving the people of Tennessee. That goal now feels more tangible, shaped by real experiences, relationships, and a clearer understanding of where she fits within the process. 

For students considering the program, she provides this:

“Be open-minded,” she said. “Nothing is really as expected up here. You’ll learn more, and in different ways, than you might think.”

When she returns to Knoxville, Paris will carry more than an internship experience. She will have a clearer understanding of how policy is shaped and a stronger sense of the role she hopes to play in it.