FARMINGTON – With only a few short days left before summer vacation, University of Maine at Farmington junior Shawn Roderick looks forward to spending part of his summer break in Washington interning for U.S. Sen. Susan Collins.
Starting May 16, the 21-year-old political science major will be far from his hometown of Anson, and living at American University. While most college kids will be busy holding jobs or soaking up rays, Roderick will be helping his senator.
“I’m not exactly sure what I’ll be doing in the office in D.C.,” Roderick said.
Although he admits that he has not received the exact details of what he’ll be doing, Roderick said he will soon find out upon his arrival in Washington. During the six weeks of his internship, he hopes to learn how the schedule works and just what type of people there are in Washington.
“I know they’ll be in session while I’m down there, so hopefully I’ll get a better feel for things,” he said.
Along with academics, Roderick is involved with the College Republicans, serving as the vice chairman for the state organization, and currently serving as the treasurer for the chapter at UMF. Going door to door and helping to organize special projects for the organization were just some his responsibilities during the campaign.
Outside of the world of academics and politics, skiing and swimming are some of his favorite hobbies.
The application process for the internship included an essay, in which he explained why he wanted to be an intern and how he thought he would gain experience during the internship.
“Part of the reason why I want to intern is because politics are one way for people to make a change and it’s so easy to get involved in,” Roderick said.
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