In the world of international relations and government, there are countless career paths, and internships are a great way to gain experience and discover what you’re passionate about. While browsing Handshake, I came across policy internships with the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), and I’ve been working there this semester. Stay tuned to see what a typical day looks like for me as I balance work, classes, and life in DC!
Tuesday
7:45 a.m.
My alarm goes off and, like clockwork, I snooze it for exactly eight minutes before waking up and getting ready for the day.
8:30 a.m.
I catch the bus to the office. Breakfast is usually quick, so I grab a protein shake on the go.
9 a.m.
I arrive at the office. Each day is different, but today we’re attending a congressional confirmation hearing for one of the newest cabinet nominees.
10 a.m.
We arrive at the hearing. Our focus is to take notes on anything relevant to our industry, particularly regarding tax and trade policies. It was interesting to see how business and non-profit leaders share their experiences and views on pressing policy issues.
2 p.m.
I walk to class at the School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). Capitol Hill is just a 15-minute walk from campus, so I head to my afternoon class on international financial markets.
5 p.m.
It’s Cookie Hour! Every Tuesday at SAIS, we have “Cookie Hour” where students enjoy free cookies and catch up with friends and classmates. (Pro tip: Heating up Insomnia Cookies in the air fryer gives them that fresh-baked taste!)
6 p.m.
Time for homework. I like to get my work done on campus to keep my home a work-free, stress-free zone. This semester, I’m focusing on two regional courses related to Africa and technology, as well as two core courses in international economics and research methods.
9:30 p.m.
I catch the metro home. Thanks to my trusty U-Pass, I get free access to all of DC’s public transportation, so I take the metro a few stops back to my apartment.
10 p.m.
It’s time to wind down. Dinner is usually a protein and rice or pasta combo—tonight, it’s lasagna and Brussel sprouts. Afterward, I’ll call my family or relax with one of my favorite shows like “New Girl” or “Modern Family.”
10:30 p.m.
Bedtime! Like most, I’m guilty of nighttime scrolling, but I try to limit it to 11 p.m. so I can get a good night’s sleep and be ready to take on the next day.
