I am interested in working in the field of environmental policy and planning. To that end, I am majoring in Urban Studies and Planning with a minor in Energy. During the summer of 2011, I participated in the MIT Washington Summer Internship Program. My internship was with the Department of the Interior in the Office of Environmental Policy and Compliance. Over the course of the summer, I worked on a number of projects relating to environmental law and the promotion of sustainable practices. In particular, my projects involved assisting the office with carrying out the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act, environmental database consolidation, workload analysis, and a number of other tasks including the creation of an online solid waste management resource center. The purpose of the solid waste management resource center was to help increase reduction, reuse and recycling practices across the Department; this project allowed me to learn about the many facets of municipal waste management.

My internship was a tremendous experience. My fellow employees were extremely friendly and helpful, always willing to answer questions and discuss their work. The projects, combined with their mentoring, gave me valuable insight into various aspects of environmental policy and planning. My supervisor even drove me out to a neighboring county to talk with the director of the county's planning department so that I could get a different perspective. I am so glad I participated in this program – it was one of the best experiences I have ever had.