From Campus to Capitol: Students Gain Real-World Experience in NC General Assembly

It’s only natural that the state’s legislative building is full of members of the Wolfpack with Raleigh being the seat of both NC State University and the NC General Assembly. Since the North Carolina General Assembly operates on a biennial schedule, the spring and summer of 2025 proved to be a particularly dynamic time for student interns to witness the legislative process in action. The building abounds with both alumni and political science students who flock to the fast-paced nature of legislative work during these crucial sessions.

That dynamic atmosphere can be a hands-on and formative experience for many undergraduates looking to dedicate their lives to public service.

Real-World Learning

For Beck Whitehead, a rising third year, working in the office of Senator Lisa Grafstein has given him the opportunity to participate in community outreach and advocacy.

“One project I’ve worked on has been helping to prepare for and coordinate a legislative town hall in Garner, NC, which involved drafting outreach materials, engaging local leaders, preparing background policy materials, and creating flyers for the event,” Whitehead said.

Avery Chiseck, a rising fourth year serving in Senator DeAndrea Salvador’s office, has enjoyed the diverse array of opportunities and responsibilities which working in the legislature provides to its interns.

“I’ve had the privilege of attending committee meetings and legislative sessions, where I draft policy briefs and provide in-depth analysis to support Senator Salvador’s legislative priorities,” Chiseck said. “My responsibilities also include key administrative tasks such as managing the front desk, coordinating meetings with constituents, agency representatives, and assisting with internal communications.”

For Chiseck, the experience has been particularly rewarding — she has had the pleasure of serving her hometown district.

“This personal connection to the district has made the work feel even more impactful and rewarding.”

Rashaad Warren, a rising fourth year and serving in Representative Allen Chesser’s office, said his everyday tasks and responsibilities have been extremely educational and informative.

“I have enjoyed the idea of acquiring new knowledge each day I come into the office,” Warren said. “I worked heavily with producing newsletter articles, which included legislature updates pertaining to bills passing the House/Senate, in which representative Chesser was primary sponsor of, and other responsibilities such as attending important events.”

Building Professional Skills

Being able to see office administration first-hand was one of the valuable facets for Tessa Bowers, a fourth year who worked in Senator Bill Rabon’s office.

“The most valuable thing I learned was how an office runs, as this was my first office experience. I gained a deep understanding of the day-to-day operations of a legislative office, including how to effectively manage tasks such as answering phones, handling mail, conducting research, and managing supplies,” Bowers said. “This experience not only helped me develop practical skills that are valuable in any office setting but also gave me insight into the importance of teamwork, communication, and organization in a professional environment.”

Students said the experience not only expanded their professional skills, but their academic prowess in the classroom as well. For Bowers, her time with Senator Rabon allowed her to apply specific examples to her coursework.

“Seeing the legislative process in action at the state level has provided me with real-world examples and practical insights that complement and enhance the knowledge I gain in my coursework,” Bowers said. “Overall, my academic coursework and internship experience have been mutually beneficial, each helping me to better understand and succeed in the other.”

Whitehead said his coursework enabled him to have a better understanding and appreciation for the work of the legislature.

“Being able to analyze the systems of power, understand complex legal language, and apply philosophical reasoning has helped me approach policy issues with more depth and awareness,” Whitehead said. “In turn, this internship has given me real-world insight into the subjects that I study in class.”

Interning in the General Assembly has been the perfect opportunity for many students to boost their self-confidence as they apply for other internships, jobs and graduate programs.

“This internship has definitely reaffirmed my passion for public service and my interest in pursuing a legal and political career,” Whitehead said. “I now feel more confident about applying for internships in government relations and other law fields, and I’ve already been offered additional opportunities this fall because of the relationships and skills I’ve gained through this experience.”

Students have also emphasized the at-times underappreciated importance of state politics. For Chiseck, her internship with Senator Salvador has inspired her to look at state government opportunities with more passion and interest.

“As Political Science majors, many of us naturally set our sights on Washington, D.C., and federal government roles,” Chiseck said. “However, this internship opened my eyes to the vital role and impact of state government. Just like the federal government, our state deserves talented and passionate individuals to help make our state stronger.”

“State government is just as—if not more—important in our daily lives. Take full advantage of the unique opportunity to get involved with state government while you’re in Raleigh.”

Chiseck encouraged students looking to build their professional experience while attending NC State to apply to roles across state government.

“With the General Assembly, state agencies, and programs with the Governor just steps from campus, there are countless ways to gain hands-on experience in public service—especially during the school year,” Chiseck said. “As political science majors studying in our state capital, we’re in an ideal position to engage directly with the heart of government.”