As summer 2020 comes to an end, the U.S. Department of Commerce interns are returning to their programs of study and embarking on academic journeys with the knowledge to last a lifetime. While their internships occurred during an unprecedented time, their experiences are certainly memorable.

Hillary Shah, a rising senior at the University of North Texas studying political science, economics, and legal studies, shares of her experience, “this internship has allowed me to really hone in my writing, people, and professional skills. My supervisor is assisting me in setting up one on one meetings with Federal employees who are performing work that I might want to do in the future so I can learn more about the process.”

Whether working in the Office of the Secretary on policies, priorities, or special projects, these students rose to the challenges and exceeded expectations to create the conditions for economic growth and opportunity throughout the American economy. Their shift to virtual internships not only reflected their ability to adapt to our rapidly changing world but also reflects the tenacity of our Nation’s college, post-graduate, and law school students.

Office of Public Affairs intern, Thaddeus Stern, shares, “I was particularly interested in the opportunity to work within the Department of Commerce, especially under such extraordinary times. The Department’s thoroughly dedicated assistance towards, and implementation of, the CARES Act has been remarkable to witness and learn about over the past eight weeks.”

Learn how some other Commerce interns benefitted from our virtual internships below.

Kathryn Miller joined the Office of Performance Excellence as a graduate intern.

“I researched public policies and programs that have been proven effective during times of economic downturn or recession,” said Miller. “This research helps the Department of Commerce understand how they can best support U.S. economic recovery.”

David Samberg interned with the Office of Public Affairs.

“Settling in on the first day of a new position is always tough – and having to do it remotely seemed even more difficult,” noted Samberg. “But the entire office was nothing but helpful and welcoming, and I was quickly able to get used to my new responsibilities.”

Katerina Chavez worked at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in Boulder, CO.

“This internship has allowed me to create enrichment activities focused on specific research NIST conducts in order to aid educators during remote learning,” said Chavez.

Eighteen offices within the U.S. Department of Commerce participate in the department’s Internship Program. Its mission is to engage and empower developing leaders with a passion for public service, the program exposes students to opportunities in the Federal Government and ignites the drive to make an impact through civil service.

As they reflect on their time at Commerce, these students should take great pride in knowing that the skills, ideas, and projects they engaged in will help their fellow Americans for years to come. Their contributions helped America during one of its most challenging times and they have truly made a difference.