Panetta Intern Testimonials
Maryam Quasto – 2017
Taking part in the Panetta Congressional Internship has been a humbling and eyeopening experience. This opportunity is truly unparalleled and allows you to explore the inner workings of Washington D.C. while gaining unique insight on how policy is crafted. You're given the chance to spend three months learning from experts, working in a congressional office, and exploring the hub of American politics and history. I am so thankful to Cal Poly, the Panetta Institute, and Secretary Panetta and Mrs. Panetta for granting students the chance to experience a life in public service.
Malcolm Mills – 2016
If you’re looking for an opportunity to “learn by doing” with Congress, or any part of the federal government, look no further. I learned more about government and how it functions during this internship than I have throughout all my time in school. I highly recommend this opportunity to anyone who has even the smallest interest in how the government works. This is truly a phenomenal opportunity that Secretary and Mrs. Panetta offer for anyone who wants to go into public service.
Courtney Jacobson – 2015
The Panetta Congressional Internship was by far the most valuable experience I have had in college. Spending a semester in Washington D.C. gave me the opportunity to explore the our Federal Government as well as the East Coast. Through this internship I learned so much about our country as well as myself.
Courtney with U.S. Representative Scott Peters at the Capitol building.
Jessica Burke – 2014
I can't express how grateful I am for being chosen to be a part of this program and definitely chosen for this office. I received the best preparation. I learned from some of the leading officials in the nation about a wide range of topics. I observed the innerworkings of Congress. And now I am interested in public service as my career.
Yenifer Origel – 2014
Working in a congressional office is different from what I expected. I learned and realized what it takes to get the attention of the congressional office. I learned about lobbying. I learned how to research and keep informed on today's issues. Ultimately, the greatest takeaway is that I learned to care more for government, public policy, legislation and political activism.
Katie Hoselton – 2013
I feel so lucky to have been granted this opportunity to pursue my passion in a real-life setting, I am so appreciative of Cal Poly for publicizing and supporting this incredible internship; Ed and Jan Slevin for their sponsorship; and of course, Leon and Sylvia Panetta for believing in the potential of university students.
The Cal Poly Panetta Congressional Intern is supported in part through
the Ed and Jan Slevin Congressional Internship Endowment.