UCF junior works in D.C. as congressional intern

Junior psychology major Amirica Nicholson spent the last two months in Washington, D.C., as a congressional intern for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. As an intern, Nicholson listens to hearings on government topics, responds to calls from constituents and keeps up with current political events. The Central Florida Future had the opportunity to speak to Nicholson about her summer on Capitol Hill.

Central Florida Future: Tell me a bit about yourself.

Amirica Nicholson: I am a very ambitious, determined and positive individual, and I always strive to reach the goals of my heart. My life philosophy is that prayer, hard work, confidence can accomplish anything, even the seemingly unattainable. In the University of Central Florida community, I am a LEAD Scholar Graduate and past mentor (2010), the Student Leadership Council Director of the Multicultural Student Center and a member of Delta Epsilon Iota academic honor society.

CFF: Where do you work?

Nicholson: Congressional Black Caucus Foundation under the United States Congress, for the House of Representatives Congressman Alcee L. Hastings.

CFF: How did you get the job?

Nicholson: I was selected for this position through the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation after an online application process, as well as an in-depth interview, which covered topics pertaining to the American governmental system and the respective figures involved in it.

CFF: What has it been like to live in Washington, D.C.?

Nicholson: Living in Washington, D.C. has been a tremendously eye-opening experience. Every day yields another opportunity to meet new people and learn from their personal insight. I had the opportunity to live here for two months, and throughout that process, I have been culturally stimulated and intellectually driven. The city offered a wide spectrum of pastimes, ranging from folk festivals, the world-renowned Smithsonian museums, delectable restaurants and the historic sites that only D.C. can offer.

CFF: Describe a day in the life of a congressional intern.

Nicholson: Each day as a congressional intern has the potential to become a life-changing experience. A typical day in the life of a congressional intern includes attending hearings on upcoming topics in the government, news and media, such as the potential AT&T/T-Mobile merger. Furthermore, my job consists of organizing and assigning constituent letters in the system, Cap Cor, and responding to the concerned calls of constituents. Moreover, outreach work is also performed, which is comprised of calling various congressional offices to persuade members to co-sponsor specific bills and resolutions.

CFF: What is your favorite part of the internship?

Nicholson: My favorite part of my internship are the bi-weekly forums that my program hosts every week. The forums can consist of a wide variety of topics, ranging from professional development to life-motivational skills.

CFF: Have you met any well-know politicians?

Nicholson: During my internship I have met: Congressman Alcee L. Hastings, Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr., Congressman Cedric Richmond, Congressman Vern Buchanan and Senator Bill Nelson.

CFF: Have you worked on any big projects as an intern?

Nicholson: I had the opportunity to write an op-ed for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's National HIV Screening Day in collaboration with Congressman Charles B. Rangel's Office. Moreover, I have worked on various outreach projects pertaining to recognition bills and animal protection rights.

CFF: What do you focus on as a congressional intern?

Nicholson: As a congressional intern, my main focus is to ensure that my office is running as smoothly as possible. This translates as covering the front desk as a receptionist, responding [to] the constituent letters, attending Minority Whip meetings and essentially keeping up with the current events of politics, nationally and internationally.

CFF: How will this internship help you in your career at UCF?

Nicholson: This internship has made me more confident in my abilities in the professional world. In regards to my career at UCF, it has enhanced my sense of responsibility, initiative and work ethic.

CFF: Tell me about some memorable moments you have had during your internship?

Nicholson: My most memorable moment would be having an in-depth conversation with Congressman Alcee L. Hastings, regarding my opinions on the debt deficit and the major issues surrounding the debt ceiling dilemma.

CFF: What do you want to do after you graduate?

Nicholson: This experience has allowed me to contemplate my future career with a better perspective on the various options that I can allocate my attention toward. Moreover, I have learned a great deal about myself working on Capitol Hill and I have enjoyed every second of it. Furthermore, I am exploring this particular path. However, as of now, my plans are to further investigate the course of psychology. After graduating from UCF, I will continue my education at the graduate level pursing a doctorate in clinical psychology. Eventually, I hope to facilitate a rehabilitation clinic assisting those suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder.