Interdisciplinary Studies
Internship Testimonials
Name: Kelsey Torgerson
Year: Junior
Major: Political Science
Minors: Public Leadership, Non-Profit Organizational Leadership
Hometown: Tallahassee, FL
This past summer, I interned at a prominent lobbying firm in the Southeastern United States, the Southern Strategy Group, in Tallahassee, Fla., and through this experience, I gained ample knowledge about the world of politics in both the private and public sectors. I decided to pursue an internship of this nature because I wanted to see, first-hand, how lobbying affected the local community, state policies and national government, giving me better insight to the lawmaking processes. Growing up in the capitol of the sunshine state, I took for granted just how significant this city, its people and its legislative decisions are to the state and its abiding citizens, but after completing my internship, I now have a firmer grasp of the growth of government.
From this internship, I learned that every client or constituent has the ability to change the world, and with proper voice and assistance from state legislators, change can happen in the best interest of the common good. Such voice is given by the leaders of our communities, our state and our nation, and these leaders are willing to accept responsibility, dedicate their time and efforts to making a difference and respect conflicts of interest when they arise. Communication and cooperation are the two most essential abilities to possess in the lobbying world, and as my supervisor once said, "Communication is the key to all relationships." Gaining trust of constituents, motivating publics, supporting causes, proposing changes, thinking forward and symbolizing democracy all factor into the lawmaking process. With access, advocacy and advice, beneficial or desired results can be successfully achieved.
In my future, I hope to lobby for medical associations, such as the Florida Medical Association, and for non-profit organizations, such as the Children's Miracle Network. My internship experience brought my aspirations from merely dreams to an attainable reality, giving me the confidence to pursue my career with passion, determination and vigor. I am grateful for the positive opportunity that I had to work with the Southern Strategy Group, and my time spent there will influence my career for the rest of my life. To be an active lobbyist and strive to always meet the needs of my constituents will allow me to make a difference in the lives of others and leave my impact, however big or small, here in our local communities.
