Leaving Miami behind for a summer in Washington, D.C. isn’t easy—but for three South Florida interns, the opportunity to grow personally and professionally outweighed the challenge. FIU student Joyce Faria is spending her summer interning at the Faith and Politics Institute. She was drawn to the capital’s energy after a brief fellowship visit and now finds inspiration in the sense of purpose that surrounds her daily life in D.C.
Faria said being in the nation’s capital has made the political process feel more tangible and immediate.
“You really feel the weight of those decisions,” said Faria, adding that seeing policy unfold up close has deepened her belief in civic engagement and the power of voting.
From hearings on the Hill to conversations with changemakers, she says the experience brings national headlines into sharp personal focus.
Just a few blocks away, University of Miami student Gabby Parker is balancing two internships—one at the Florida House on Capitol Hill and the other in Congressman Brian Mast’s office. Her responsibilities range from giving Capitol tours to conducting legislative research and answering calls from constituents in Florida.
“In D.C., people socialize through work,” said Parker. “Every interaction feels like networking…whereas in Miami, people are more social just to be social. It’s a shift.”
FIU student Klaudia Litardo is also experiencing growth firsthand. She’s interning with the Organization of American States and a youth-focused NGO, she’s exploring Latin American issues while building her independence. Although she initially questioned whether she belonged in such high-level spaces, Litardo says she’s learned to trust herself and embrace the discomfort.
“You never know how big your world can be until you leave,” said Litardo. “I’d tell anyone from Miami to come to D.C.”
