BHARATHI SUNDARAM

This spring, I interned with the House Select Committee on Homeland Security’s Democratic Staff. Over the past several months, I’ve learned a great deal not only about homeland security but also about the functioning of Congress itself, such as the formation of legislation and the importance of staff in supporting a representative.

Working for a committee gave me a unique perspective. Its sole focus is on the Department of Homeland Security and preventing terrorist attacks in America, while a Congressman’s personal office interacts directly with constituents and addresses several different topics.

I have had the opportunity to help prepare for and attend hearings and press conferences, assist in the editing of reports, and conduct research for the staff on rail, border, aviation, and port security. I have also learned about the diverse experiences of the staff, most of whom have worked many years outside Capitol Hill in areas ranging from state-building in Kosovo to serving in the U.S. Coast Guard.

Just as significant to working on the committee has been living in Washington, D.C. My exposure to the political system has been tremendous. I have participated in a grassroots campaign with the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and volunteered for a Democratic National Committee event where former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and former Texas Governor Ann Richards spoke.

Numerous receptions and gatherings have afforded me the chance to meet distinguished figures and learn about the issues that are important to different groups. Perhaps most importantly, I’ve been able to see the political involvement of many Indian-Americans and consider the role of the Indian-American community in politics. While I have wanted a job in a government or non-governmental organization for several years, it was only through this internship that I’ve thought about that goal in the context of being an Indian-American.