Congressional Internship Program – Katie Glagola
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: Katie Glagola
Graduation Year and Major: Junior, Political Science major with a minor in Public Relations/Advertising
Hometown: Ellicott City, MD
What inspired you to apply for the Congressional Internship Program?
I applied to this program because public service is something I’ve always wanted to pursue. Growing up, I knew I wanted to help people, but I also knew the medical field wasn’t the right path for me. In high school, I discovered my love of government and politics and realized that this was the way I could make a difference. I saw this internship as the perfect opportunity to learn about public service in the heart of our nation’s capital. What excited me most was that it wasn’t limited to working in a congressional office. The program also supported interests in think tanks, lobbying firms, and other areas.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day starts with riding the Metro to work. I always stop at CUPS Coffee in my office building—it has the best coffee ever. Once I’m in the office, I check the schedule for the day and start collaborating with the other interns on projects. We also support staff members with any tasks they need. Most days, we head to Union Station for lunch as a group. No two days are ever the same, which is something I love. One day I might be giving tours, the next I am taking notes in a meeting, and another day I am working on legislative projects.
What’s one moment, project, or interaction during your internship that has made a strong impact on you?
One of the most impactful moments for me was being able to help a constituent in real time and see the benefit. Whether it was taking a phone call, assisting with casework, listening to concerns, or just helping someone find their way, it was refreshing to see how much of a difference those small actions could make. I remember one woman calling in, and when I answered, she was genuinely relieved that a real person was taking the time to listen and understand her.
How has this experience influenced your goals for the future or changed how you view public service?
This experience has confirmed my desire to work in politics. Whenever a staff member asks if we want to come back to work on the Hill, I am the first to say, “Yes, I am, and I will be a staff assistant as soon as I graduate.” I have truly fallen more in love with what I do every day, to the point where I even miss work on the weekends.
What skills or lessons are you learning that you’ll take with you after this internship?
I will take the policy writing skills I have learned and apply them to my future political science classes and career. This internship has also emphasized the importance of networking and building connections. I now understand that impressions matter, because you never know who you will be working with or for in the future.
Is there a specific issue or policy area you’re especially passionate about? If so, tell us why.
Right now, I am most passionate about a bill recommendation focused on the federal decriminalization of marijuana. Too many people are being incarcerated for possessing small amounts, which often does not warrant months of jail time. It has also been shown to have significant medical benefits. I believe people should not be punished for using something that helps them manage their health.
What has surprised you most about working in D.C. or in a congressional office?
What surprised me most was how much bipartisan work actually gets done. The news often makes it sound like both parties are constantly at odds, but when you are inside the Capitol and see it firsthand, you realize there is more agreement than disagreement. While there is still progress to be made, it was encouraging to see that both parties want to improve the lives of all Americans.
What would you say to another UT student considering applying for this program in the future?
I would absolutely recommend applying. Even if you discover that this is not the right path for you, it is still an incredible opportunity to gain valuable professional experience and grow in new ways.