Recently I interned at a local political campaign, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I learned so much about politics and about myself. It takes a lot of hard work to put your all into a campaign, but I can assure you that the ends justify the means. Here are the 4 best parts of working on a political campaign:
1. Knowing that you are working towards something you believe in
The day that my campaign did not win was a terrible night for me. I cried a lot as sad as that is to admit, and I realize looking back on it that I wasn't crying for my work being for nothing or because the race was over; I was crying because the person I believed in lost and now my district had dug its grave. Interning on a campaign is knowing that after all the phone calls and doors are done, the person that you believe will be bi-partisan and hold your best interests as a citizen could become your representative. That feeling is indescribable.
2. Meeting some amazing people
As an intern, I met some amazing people this election cycle. I met famous politicians like John Kasich, and I also met amazing friends and contacts from nearby colleges and high schools. I will never forget joking around in the office, drinking massive slushies while canvassing and playing ping pong during breaks with some of the nicest people I have ever met.
3. Becoming educated in a world of politics
I entered the campaign as a freshman with limited understanding in the political world. I knew where I stood on issues, who I wanted for president, and who I wanted to represent my district, but outside of this, I was not well versed in other politicians. I did not know the names of representatives of nearby districts, where my district spanned to, or the reason for the electoral college. I had a decent understanding of the political system, but my internship brought this understanding to a new level. I developed a passion for politics, and I learned politician's names, current issues, and began to further understand my stances which are extremely valuable to my future.
4. Learning patience
I have always been a pretty patient person, but this election brought my patience to a new level. I learned to listen to what people tell you and answer respectfully, I learned to take rejection, and I learned to be grateful for the good phone calls. A big part of a campaign is making cold calls or knocking on doors, so any intern understands when I say frustrating is an understatement to describe this process. People will scream in your face, slam the door on you, and call you horrible names, but through the election, you grow as a person. You learn to take these people in stride and respond "thank you for your opinion" rather than arguing your point. You learn that there are some opinions you cannot influence, and that is okay.
For anyone considering volunteering on a political campaign next semester I highly recommend it. You will meet some amazing people and learn some valuable life lessons. It may be hard at times, but win or lose it is definitely worth it.
