Congressional Internship Program – Cade Simmons
Every year, a select group of University of Tennessee, Knoxville students work on Capitol Hill through the Baker School’s Congressional Internship Program. This opportunity places students in the offices of U.S. Representatives and Senators, where they gain hands-on experience in public service, policy, and legislative work.
Each student brought their curiosity, professionalism, and Volunteer spirit to Washington, D.C. We caught up with them to ask what they learned, what surprised them, and how the experience is shaping their future plans.
Name: Cade Simmons
Graduation Year and Major: Sophomore, Dual Degree Public Affairs and Agricultural Business
Hometown: Spencer, TN
What inspired you to apply for the Congressional Internship Program?
I wanted to gain a better understanding of how our federal government operates while serving the constituents of the district where I call home. To be able to gain experience in the day-to-day work of passing and considering legislation was an incredibly exciting idea to me!
What does a typical day look like for you?
When I first get to work, I will check our news release from our press secretary on the major events and pending legislation in our nation, as well as on the state and international stage. This informs me on potential projects we should work on or legislation to research. After answering calls from constituents for a few hours, I will usually have a legislative memo to write or a research project on a particular issue, which could inform legislation, and after doing that research, I can provide recommendations to the office. Most days, I will give a tour of the Capitol to constituents from our district, which is one of the most fun parts of the job. Lastly, there are some days where I have the chance to sit in on meetings (usually related to agriculture) that come into the office, which gives me a great chance to understand the particular issues affecting agriculture as well as the state of Tennessee!
How has this experience influenced your goals for the future or changed how you view public service?
I think I often viewed the role of public service as one where putting in long hours and deep research was key to success and key to helping the people you serve. That has pivoted, because while these skills are necessary, communication skills and asking the right questions with a positive attitude is the most important attribute!
What skills or lessons are you learning that you’ll take with you after this internship?
Online research skills and collaborative problem-solving are the absolute keys to working in public service, especially roles in creating legislation.
Is there a specific issue or policy area you’re especially passionate about? If so, tell us why.
I was already interested in agricultural policy, but that interest has only grown since I arrived in D.C. My Representative serves on the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, and as a result, I have the opportunity to sit in on meetings and listen to the major concerns in the agricultural field right now. I have learned I am particularly interested in international business relations and how they affect agricultural markets and commodities.
What has surprised you most about working in D.C. or in a congressional office?
What surprised me most is how down-to-earth and people-focused the work is. Sure, the atmosphere of each Congressman/Congresswoman’s office can be very different, but Rep. Rose’s office in particular always prioritizes people in all interactions and takes time to understand and ensure concerns are understood and addressed! With the constant speed that Congress moves, it can sometimes be difficult to see the human side of things, but my office has shown me the hard work Congressional staff put in behind the scenes to make everything happen.
What would you say to another UT student considering applying for this program in the future?
Any student should absolutely apply to the CIP! Figure out what area of policy you are particularly interested in, and don’t be afraid to show that passion. When interns are truly passionate about the work and helping people through said work, it shows and people notice. If you are accepted into the program, don’t be afraid during your time to explore and meet new people. D.C. is a city with a vibrant and young culture, and you can meet tons of great people.