Home » What do interns have to say?

“If you show a strong preference for a certain type of project DFA will customize things for you, and you’re free to go and come as you please. The truth is DFA is like a family and even once you leave, you're still a member of it. The city and area grows on you and when it's over, you want to go back. It was genuinely the best experience of my life, and gave me a view into what life in a field I love is like.”

Franco Caliz-Aguilar
DFA-Miami outreach coordinator, FIU-DFA campus corps president

“I would definitely highly recommend a DFA internship to anyone who is passionate about becoming involved in political activism and wants to gain not only the practical skills and tools, but also to be inspired by getting to know the people who are already doing it.”

Kasey Neil
Gordon College

“My work today would not be possible without the practical and positive experience I gained as a DFA intern.”

Aaron Voldman
DFA Brandeis organizer, National College Director for the Student Peace Alliance

“Some nights the interns and some of the full-time staff would stay up until 2 in the morning talking about everything from politics to 80's music. It made for some long days and long nights, but it was incredibly fun. In addition to learning skills like working with activists all over the country and vetting candidates, I developed an appreciation for all the natural beauty northern Vermont has to offer; from kayaking on Lake Champlain to hiking in the Green Mountains to the Ben and Jerry's factory.”

Amanda Dlugiewicz
Finance director, Robin Weirauch for Congress

“Everyone is enthusiastic and passionate about their work and willing to answer any questions or just talk with you about their experiences in politics. The work is interesting, and interns get put in charge of real projects. Today I emailed over 10,000 people encouraging them to contact their representatives about the public healthcare option.”

Kate Robbins
Knox College

“Interning at DFA is a rare opportunity to gain actual skills and experience, and avoid the menial tasks of the typical political internship. DFA really values their interns, and it shows in the respect and responsibility they give us. Working at DFA as an intern isn't just another thing to put on your resume - you have the chance to really work for change, make great connections, and learn what working in progressive politics really means.”

Leslie Drake
Queens University of Canada

“This is an office where you can tell jokes and also get important work done.  You don't just do research and data entry, and you certainly aren't asked to go get coffee and laundry.  At DFA you get to have your name on national emails and contact lawmakers about their policy stances.  DFA is great about giving you responsibility - you don't feel like you're just wasting your time to boost your resume.”

Jane Sturgess
Carleton College