News and Events
[printer friendly version]posted on 2/21/06
Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan, Native Represents SJC in Washington, D.C. Internship
SJC junior John Simon (left) and fellow interns pose with Senator Joseph Biden (D., Delaware) (center) in Washington, D.C.
Story written for SJC by Publications and Media Relations Intern Katherine Stembel
Posted: February 21, 2006
John Simon, a junior Economics and Marketing major, is spending the spring in Washington, D.C. in a semester-long internship for United States Senator Carl Levin. Levin, a Democratic representative for Michigan, is the head of the Armed Services Committee. Simon applied online for the position, sending in his resume, numerous letters of recommendation, and a writing sample. He was chosen in addition to three other interns out of a pool of applicants.
"I do some mail sorting and run errands, but basically I report to a legislative coordinator," said Simon, whose main responsibilities are economic and tax issues. "Lately, I have been researching bills and writing letters to constituents about their complaints and giving them the Senator's reactions. I also research things like current events and [economic issues] and do memos on summaries of bills or memos that Senator Levin wants background on."
Although Simon has always been attracted to economics and political affairs, he truly became interested in going into politics during his sophomore year at Saint Joseph's College while enrolled in an intermediate macroeconomics course. "I figured this [internship] would be a good way to get my foot in the door, get my experience and get out there. Economics is really where I can focus my attention on something I love to do."
Through the internship, Simon is able to explore his interests while experiencing the world of politics. "I've learned how everything in the office operates, how bills [become laws], how things happen on the [Senate] floor, how [senators] deal with constituents and how they try to fill [the peoples'] needs," said Simon. Additionally, the recent nomination and confirmation of the latest Supreme Court Justice Sam Alito has given Simon insight into some of the inner workings of politics. "I've learned how the vote works, how they have to get together and speak on what their opinions are of the person. I've also seen how a filibuster works and how you can stop that with just one vote."
Simon believes his internship experience will contribute to his future goals. "I want to run for senator one day and go into politics. I think I could really help this country and I love politics. I like debating and its one thing I can do all day, every day, and not tire. Now I get to see the [Senate] floor all the time and listen to what the senators have to say."
In addition to a stronger work ethic and additional knowledge, Simon's internship has provided him with real-world experience at a young age. "The experience taught me overall that you can't just sit around and wait for something to happen; you have to go get it yourself. They notice the people who work hard and you do have to work for it because no one is going to hand it to you. You realize how hard you have to work until you get what you want."
Saint Joseph's College, named a "character-building college" by the Templeton Foundation and a "best Midwestern college" by the Princeton Review, is a four-year, Catholic, liberal arts college offering 74 major, minor, and pre-professional programs. Founded and sponsored by the Missionaries of the Precious Blood, SJC is located in Rensselaer, Indiana, approximately 90 minutes from both Chicago and Indianapolis, on a park-like campus of 180 acres and has an enrollment of over 1,000 students.
