Nicholas Neuman

Majors: Political Science and Agricultural Economics (Pre-Law and Policy); Minor: Global Food and Agriculture Systems; Certificate: Public Policy 

Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs Intern, US Department of State

1.) How did you learn about this internship opportunity? 

 I learned about this internship opportunity through job searching on USA Jobs. 

2.) How has your internship helped build your skills and clarify your career goals?  How do you apply your Liberal Arts skills to your internship?  

This internship has furthered my interest in foreign affairs and international economic development. Being a political science and economics student, I was well situated to excel within State and the larger federal interagency. 

3.) What is a piece of advice you would give someone looking for an internship?  

I would encourage students to cast a wide net when looking for an internship, especially when it comes to working in the federal government. Because of how vast the federal government is, there are typically similar opportunities spread throughout the agencies. 

4.) What specific responsibilities have you undertaken during your internship?

I have served as a staff assistant supporting the work of one of the Assistant Secretaries in the State Department. 

5.) In what ways has the College of Liberal Arts at Purdue University supported your internship journey? How has your participating in our job-ready program specifically aided your professional development? 

Specifically at State, coming from a STEM-heavy school has been beneficial. Having the traditional political science education through the College of Liberal Arts was supplemented by Purdue's presence in the tech and science field. This aided in my work at the State Department by offering multiple perspectives that I could use to both connect with other employees and implement into my work.

6.) Could you highlight a standout aspect of your experience in this program that you find particularly noteworthy? 

The Job-Ready program has lowered the barriers to working in Washington DC, one of the most expensive cities in the United States. Having more financial flexibility allowed me to focus on my internship and capitalize on professional opportunities.