Inspired by his internship experiences at the city, state, and federal levels, Jason Strojny '16 plans to pursue a career in public service.
Year: 2016
Major: Crime & Justice Studies
Minor: Leadership & Civic Engagement
Hometown: Taunton, MA
Award: Donald C. Howard Pillars of the Community
Internships: City of Taunton, Massachusetts State Senate, White House Office of Presidential Correspondence
Next steps: Law school & public office
White House internship
I currently intern in the Office of Presidential Correspondence, where I am privileged with hearing from the American people on issues that matter to them. My office is responsible for facilitating an open dialogue between the President and the American people. The White House Internship Program has taught me an incredible amount about the executive branch of government and about myself as a leader.
Every day that I walk into the White House complex, I have to remind myself that I am not dreaming. I realize that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I am enjoying the chance to make the most of it. Surely no day is the same in my office, but I enjoy the fast-paced environment. It is truly an honor to help serve the American people every day.
This internship has definitely solidified my passion for public service. Having the privilege to intern for the White House and see the federal government at work has been inspiring to me. I cannot wait to build upon this experience by getting into public service to make life better for others.
Internships in city & state government
Last summer, I completed an internship at the Office of Thomas Hoye, Jr., Mayor of Taunton. I did a lot of research on substance abuse resources and created a database of substance abuse services for the City of Taunton’s website. I believe I made a positive impact on people’s lives.
I then applied for an internship with State Senate President Pro Tempore Marc R. Pacheco [who presides over the Senate in the absence of the Senate president]. He saw that I was involved in local media through my City of Taunton internship, and that connected with what I’d be doing at the Statehouse.
I went to the State House twice a week, focusing on constituent communications and correspondence. I developed my skills in constituency communication and learned so much about the Statehouse. It was a wonderful experience.
Inside perspective on government work
I am so grateful for these opportunities to see the government work from an inside perspective, and I have learned an incredible amount since my first internship. I am also confident that I am entering the right career path because I was able to put myself in these positions and see what they were like.
Internship advice: shoot for the stars
The advice I'd give to internship seekers is to shoot for the stars. Never dismiss yourself or your abilities, because anything is possible. Send out multiple applications and make dozens of phone calls. To me, an internship is worth as much, or more, than you can learn in the classroom.
The future: law school & public office
I was accepted at Suffolk Law School in Boston. I want to get my law degree and work on the complex legal issues that face our nation. Then I'd like to run for public office. Ultimately, I want to become governor of Massachusetts.