Free Write 9 - Never A Dull Moment

In previous posts I've touched on how DC always has stuff happening and it's no different at the State Department. Ever since the re-opening of the government things have been kicked into overdrive and the true nature of working for a large federal agency has come to life.

Everyone is busy and there is always something happening. What stands out to me is the constant influx of information that we receive before many other outlets get a chance to. Each morning is something different, like new meetings, briefings, or events. There is also constant monitoring of Secretary Kerry's schedule so we are aware of where he's traveling and what the press wants to do. This information helps us stay informed and also provides the office with a constantly changing agenda. One day it might be dealing with remarks to the media, the next involves monitoring a public info session, and sometimes our office will travel to meet with other offices to discuss a variety of things.

This go-go-go mentality is certainly different for me, but I must say I've embraced the chaos. It has made days memorable and consistently different. It also allows me to meet people and see familiar faces on a regular basis, which is an aspect of the job I really enjoy.

Free Write 8 - Loving the City

Washington, DC truly is a remarkable place to visit. There is so much to do and see that it can be overwhelming. When I'm not working I'm always out with my roommates doing something, and that's one of the beauties of this place, the never ending sense of wonder.

Just up the street from my place is a nice sports place where I go to catch the Seahawks and the Sun Devils games. The nightlife is nothing short of thriving as well with just about every DC district having it's own distinct feel and personality. I can see why experts say that DC is the "youngest" city in the country. There are so many young professionals here at a similar point in their lives and you can see this extensively on any Friday and Saturday night. If you go to Georgetown be prepared for great food and an awesome college crowd. It reminded me a little of being back in the Tempe area, although Georgetown is nationally well known for it's nightlife, shopping, and food.

It should also be mentioned that I had one of the best haircuts of my life in the short time I've been here, that's a pretty huge deal. Moving on.

Sooner or later I want to take a trip and see the monuments and museums again, although since I've already done a majority of those things previously it doesn't feel like a pressing matter. It has been nice to just enjoy myself when I'm not working rather than feel pressured to fit something into my schedule. This is the best way to experience DC for sure.

Supervisor Interview/Profile

Here at the State Department I have the great privilege to work for an enthusiastic and intelligent supervisor. Her main responsibilities include, but aren't limited to, contacting constituents, dealing with upper management, organizing hometown diplomat sessions, preparing informal briefings, and contacting various universities to schedule events.

These are functions that are extremely important to the State Department and it is through these methods that we connect and engage with the general public. This form of connection is a big part of how the Federal Government is able to leave its footprint at a domestic level. My supervisor is great at this job not only because she is motivated, but she loves connecting with people through casual conversation, informed speaking, or anything in between. When you work in the public sector let alone an office dedicated to engaging with the public, these are necessary attributes.

When we talked about how she got to where she was, she assured me that for this kind of job you have to be good with people. Friendliness goes a long way wherever you go and working in this office has shown me just how important that is. I've always been polite, sociable, and easy-going but I was unclear of how or if working with others would change at the federal level. My supervisor has shown me that the ability to interact with others in an approachable and friendly manner are keys to success no matter where you go and those are big reasons why she has found success in her career.

If there were any new trends that have become increasingly crucial in the public sector these days, it's the obvious emergence of social media and the continuous influx of new technology. In the world we live in connecting with others comes in so many more forms than just talking. Now, our office emphasizes the importance of social media and other forms of communication such as Skype, hangout, and chat. These common conveniences help us reach out and connect with others in ways that just weren't possible seven years ago. Thanks in part to my supervisor, I've witnessed the importance of using new methods of communication.

The verdict is still out on what specifically I wish to do career-wise. However, working here thus far and having first hand exposure to people who work in the public sector reaffirm my belief that a position dealing with people or administrative type work is a good fit for my personality. I could definitely see myself doing more of this kind of work.

Free Write 7 - Constant Learning

I'm about to finish up my first week with the State Department and every day has been a learning experience. Prior to starting my internship I was aware of what was happening in the global community, but I'm on an entirely new level here.

Getting first hand exposure to simple press conferences or routinely checking the news helps me stay up to date. Now I start my days by immediately going to the State Department homepage and viewing current or previous press briefings, something that people who don't work at with the Department even have access too. These little habits help me stay informed and up to date with foreign affairs news as well as the United States' various stances on international issues.

If you're interested in learning more in depth foreign relations news I strongly encourage visiting the State Department's website at state.gov or following the State Department on Twitter @StateDept.

Displaying Leadership

Here at the State Department leadership plays a crucial role in every office. One of the things I noticed right off the bat was the amount of organization and planning that goes into everything. Supervisors and senior officials are responsible for making sure things go smoothly, and without that leadership the whole system would crumble, and this system is gigantic.

Within my office my supervisor follows the same principle, emphasizing organization and planning. She is precise and demonstrates how a supervisor should act, but also makes an effort to keep the office's spirits up and ensures that everyone keeps a positive attitude. It is these little qualities that can get overlooked when analyzing great leadership, and I know from experience how effective this model is. It is very similar to the way my office does things back at the Arizona State Senate. We don't view each other as co-workers, rather, a team. This mindset goes a long way in the workplace.

So far, I haven't really assumed any "leadership" type roles. Since I'm just getting started I'm still getting the feel for things and with the government shutdown still effective there haven't been a ton of opportunities to lead. I imagine that as my internship continues I will find more opportunities to take the initiative and impress some people (hopefully)!

For now, observing the way my co workers and supervisor work together to accomplish goals is giving me valuable insight into what it takes to be successful at a place like the State Department.

Free Write 6 - Finally in DC!

At long last I have arrived in Washington, DC. The past few days have been hectic but I'm finally beginning to get settled and experience the city a little bit. My apartment is literally two blocks from Union Station, which makes traveling unbelievably convenient. The Metro is by far the most popular form of transportation around here and is partially why a lot of DC citizens don't have cars.

I haven't done much in terms of sight seeing, but I have visited Dupont Circle and experienced the nightlife, which has certainly earned all of its reputation. It was everything I would have hoped it would be! Dupont Circle is beautiful and definitely worth seeing. Another place in DC that's been fun has been H Street right next to Union Station. I'm looking forward to seeing Foggy Bottom next week.

Fortunately I'm still scheduled to begin my internship with the State Department on Monday, which is great news considering this whole government shut down. Prior to getting here I was worried how much the shut down would impact my internship. For the time being, it looks like everything is still a go for my orientation.

I've only been here for 4 days now but I'm really enjoying it, and I can't wait to experience the city more and officially start my internship!