Internships

Reflections on Internships

I have had to the opportunity to work at two internships during my time at Pitt. During the spring semester of junior year, I received an internship through Pitt’s Institute of Politics. This internship enabled me to work in the office of Councilman R. Daniel Lavelle on the Pittsburgh City Council. At this internship, I was able to learn how a local government runs and what is viewed as important legislation to pass. Additionally, this internship involved going to a class once a week with other students in the same program who worked at different local, state, or federal elected official’s offices. This was interesting because we could learn from each other and share our experiences. This internship helped me to discover my interest in politics at a local level. The local level of politics is so important because it shapes day-to-day functions.

My second internship was at Oakland Planning and Development Corporation (OPDC). At this internship, I was exposed to how a nonprofit in a city runs, specifically, one that works with affordable housing.

My internships have been complementary because Councilman Lavelle created the Housing Opportunity Fund which provides the City of Pittsburgh with 10 million dollars per year to either preserve current housing or develop new affordable housing. Interestingly enough, OPDC is applying for funds from this program. It is interesting to see my internships intersect and connect in this way and see the Housing Opportunity Fund from a policy side and from an application and implementation side.

Overall, my two internships have taught me how to work in a office setting and how to communicate and collaborate with professionals. I have also learned my interests for a career lie in either a government policy role or at a nonprofit.

Oakland Planning and Development Corporation Internship

Property Management Intern at Oakland Planning and Development Corporation (OPDC)

October 2018 – April 2019

As an intern, I managed tenant databases, organized files and paperwork, created capital needs budgets for affordable housing properties, and compiled finance and other information for the US Department of Housing and Urban Development . Additionally, I communicated regularly via phone, email, and fax with residents, applicants, and other organizations. I was able to see first-hand the process of obtaining affordable housing through entering applications, calling potential tenants, preparing interview paperwork, and being involved in meetings. Also, through this internship, I canvassed for the Oakland Community Land Trust. Lastly, I learned the workings of a nonprofit through attending weekly staff meetings and communication and collaboration with other staff members on projects.

Pittsburgh City Council Internship

Intern for R. Daniel Lavelle on the Pittsburgh City Council

January – April 2018

At this internship, I wrote communications, created newsletters, and completed research. Additionally, I handled constituent requests and office tasks. I attended city government meetings and recorded relevant proceedings for official use. I learned how local government functions and what city government legislation focuses on. Also, I assisted in drafting legislation for the Councilman’s office. Lastly, I gained knowledge on how to interact with constituents in the district though frequent email and phone communication.