Ryan Shea of Roger Williams talks about his Experience with VFW's National Legislative Services Office

Where did you intern this Fall and what were some of your favorite projects?

I interned at the VFW’s National Legislative Services Office. My favorite project has to do with the Armed Forces Retirement Home’s financial crisis. I was tasked with coming up with ideas to make its budget solvent again while avoiding raising fees to residents who we represent.

What did you learn in your classes?

I learned a lot about the professional world and how to represent yourself. The internship seminar was very helpful and developing my confidence in networking opportunities.

What did you do in your free time?

I would try to do different things each weekend from different museums/monuments to golfing, etc. I would also go out to different bars and clubs on the weekends. Most of the time I was with my friends made through the program.

Recommendations for future DC interns?

I recommend that you develop good friendships with many of the people in the program as well as other interns you meet. It can expand your network, and allows you to have more fun opportunities like receptions or events that you would not have heard about otherwise.

How did your internship lead you to being employed? 

I think that my internship has set me up well for future employment. The VFW is very well respected around Capitol Hill and has allowed me to meet people who could potentially help me become employed after college.