Congressional Internship Program – Adarius Parrish
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: Adarius Parrish
Graduation Year and Major: Junior, Political Science
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Why did you apply for the Congressional Internship Program? What interested you most about this opportunity?
I applied for the Congressional Internship Program because I saw it as a small yet profound way to serve a nation I care deeply about. Public service has always felt like my life’s calling, and I believe I knew that from a young age. When I heard about an opportunity to begin that journey in such a unique and rare way, I knew I couldn’t pass it up.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day starts around 8:30 a.m. when I arrive at the office, set things up to welcome constituents, and check emails or any tasks that may have been assigned to me. Depending on the day, my responsibilities vary. Sometimes I spend a few hours answering phones or following up on missed calls, voicemails, and constituent mail. Several times a week, I have the chance to sit in on committee meetings or give Capitol tours to visiting constituents. I also regularly connect with legislative staff to see how I can support their work, which has given me the chance to dive into meaningful policy projects and contribute to the smooth functioning of the office.
What’s one moment, project, or interaction during your internship that has made a strong impact on you?
One impactful moment happened on my very first day. I was about to get on the elevator when the Senator stepped on. I was ready to wait for the next one so she could head to her destination quickly, but she made a point to invite me on and ask how my first day was going. It may seem like a small interaction, but for someone with so many responsibilities to take the time to make me feel welcome—that’s something I’ll always remember and appreciate.
How has this experience influenced your goals for the future or changed how you view public service?
This experience has sparked a strong interest in returning to Capitol Hill one day to serve as Counsel in a congressional office—a position I didn’t even know existed before this internship. It has also deepened my respect for the many public servants, both elected and non-elected, who work behind the scenes. It truly takes a dedicated team to carry out the work of Congress, and the people I’ve worked alongside genuinely care about the impact they’re making.
What skills or lessons are you learning that you’ll take with you after this internship?
A few key skills I’m developing and will continue to carry with me include professionalism, effective communication, and time management. These are essential skills to have before stepping into a congressional office, but once the work begins, you learn to apply them in new and meaningful ways.
Is there a specific issue or policy area you’re especially passionate about? If so, tell us why.
I’m especially interested in the judiciary. This branch of government plays a major role in shaping society, and Congress has significant influence in defining that role and deciding who serves in those positions. Understanding that dynamic has made me even more passionate about this area of policy.
What has surprised you most about working in D.C. or in a congressional office?
I’ve been surprised by just how much one person can do in a single day—and how fast-paced the environment really is. From the Senator to every member of the staff, everyone plays a part in keeping things running smoothly and making sure constituents are served well. I thought I had worked in fast-paced environments before, but there’s nothing quite like seeing a quiet lobby suddenly fill with five groups, each with unique concerns and needs.
What would you say to another UT student considering applying for this program in the future?
Embrace everything. There will be days when it feels like the movies are right and you’re doing the most routine or repetitive task imaginable. But those small tasks matter. Doing them well can lead to moments where you find yourself in places you once only dreamed of. Embrace it, cherish it, and when you’re done, pass it on.