Welcome to our new class of interns for our Fall 2024 Intern Program! This skilled group will spend the fall exploring the fields of government relations, policy and public affairs. They will also develop strong communication, policy analysis and research and writing skills. Throughout the program, our interns will gain essential insights into the workings of the United States government, the intersection of public affairs and public policy and the business development process through marketing research and collateral creation.
Out of nearly 594 applicants, we have selected 17 impressive young professionals to join the team this fall, with James Theus continuing from the Summer to support our Public Affairs team. Together, they will support senior professionals throughout the firm in policy, research, public affairs, advisory services, compliance, marketing and overall operations. We are thankful to have this group on our team and look forward to witnessing their development over the coming months. Learn more about each of their backgrounds, interests and fun facts below!
Charles Birt (Policy Intern): Charlie Birt is a senior at Hillsdale College and a Winston Churchill Fellow studying politics, with an emphasis on foreign policy, international relations and financial management. He has worked for the Capitol Research Center, Axiom Strategies, Americans for Prosperity-Kansas and several congressional campaigns. As a Kansas native, Charlie enjoys rooting for the Chiefs and Royals, volunteering at the National WWI Museum and Memorial and giving his opinion on the city’s best barbeque.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: A deeper insight into the interactions between the corporate and political worlds, particularly how corporations and private interests balance business decisions with bureaucratic, legislative and executive institutions.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: Government relations represent the crossroads of politics and finance, personal areas of study and the high-powered industries that determine the direction of the country and the prosperity of its people. Practice provides the various interests an opportunity to participate in the process of governance efficiently and effectively.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: Beyond politics, law and history, I have a deep appreciation for art and culture, ranging from music and poetry to architecture and film.
Caren Chopra (Digital Marketing Intern): Caren Chopra, a DMV native, is pursuing a Master of Science in Marketing at George Washington University, where she will graduate in December 2024. She received her undergraduate degree from George Washington in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a double minor in management and leadership and criminal justice. With a diverse background in marketing, business development and communications, Caren is passionate about leveraging digital tools to further marketing and communication strategies. She has honed skills in crafting compelling content, developing digital marketing campaigns and driving engagement.
Caren gained valuable experience as a Marketing and Communications intern at CREED In Action, where she led communication outreach and developed marketing campaigns. Her time as a Marketing and Business Development Fellow at Monument Advocacy sharpened her ability to create multimedia products to further business and digital strategy. Additionally, Caren has demonstrated a keen aptitude for e-commerce management as an Amazon storefront manager at JMD LLC, where she optimized product listings, analyzed KPIs, and drove sales growth. In her free time, Caren enjoys traveling and trying new restaurants.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: I am looking to deepen my understanding of the intersection between public affairs and digital strategy. I look forward to working with the team and continuing to grow my skills in policy research, content creation and strategic communications. I also hope to expand my network and make meaningful, professional connections.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: I have always had an interest in politics because of policies and issues that affect myself and those around me. I further developed an interest in government relations after taking civics in middle school, ultimately leading to my bachelor’s degree in political science. Through my classes at GW, I became more interested in public affairs and the intersection between the private and public sectors.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I was born in New Delhi, India and can speak four languages!
Starmanda Duker (Compliance Intern): Star Duker, a native of Maryland, is currently pursuing her Juris Doctor at the University of Baltimore School of Law. Her academic background includes a B.A. in Government & Politics from the University of Maryland College Park, a Master of Public Administration from the University of Delaware and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University. Before law school, Star was the Senior Government Affairs Manager at the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI). At ITI, Star led workforce development and diversity and inclusion advocacy efforts. Star enjoys traveling, learning about various cultures and mentoring in her free time.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: My goal is to deepen my understanding of compliance processes and how legal professionals navigate regulatory hurdles and devise innovative strategies for emerging challenges in this dynamic field.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: My passion for government relations was sparked during my formative years at Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School. As part of the school’s innovative work-study program, I had the opportunity to intern at Cornerstone, an experience that laid the foundation for my current career and academic path.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I play the clarinet, and I love to critique and try new restaurants.
Kaylyn Harper (Policy Intern): Kaylyn Harper recently earned her bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in legal studies from Jackson State University. While on campus, she was part of many organizations, including Blue Ambassadors, Campus Activities Board, Service Ambassadors, JSU Political Science Club and Fannie Lou Hamer Pre-Law Society. She is a Spring ’22 initiate of the Gamma Rho Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and served as Chapter Treasurer and Miss AKA.
Kaylyn interned for the Mississippi Democratic Party and is currently a Government Finance Officers Association member. She has been involved in local government for many years, working on local campaigns, home restoration projects for the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre survivors, racial inequality protests, expungement expos, voter registration drives and more. She plans to further her education by attending law school or pursuing a political science or public policy doctorate.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: I am looking to gain a deeper understanding of government relations as well as expand my knowledge of the many different policy areas Cornerstone has to offer. I hope to create and maintain long-lasting connections within Cornerstone and also expand my professional network across DC.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: I have been exposed to local government in my community since 6th grade, by my mother, a City Councilwoman. In 8th grade, my history teacher, Mr. Cherry, helped me realize I have a vast interest in government and how historical events shaped our current political systems.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I am a diehard Marvel fan and in my spare time I love cooking for others and trying new recipes. I even own a barbeque food truck and catering company with my father!
Anya Huggins (Policy Intern): Anya is a sophomore at Wake Forest University studying politics, international affairs and sociology, with a concentration in inequality and social justice. While Anya is from Fort Mill, South Carolina, the Caribbean feels more like home, specifically Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Saint Kitts and Nevis, where her parents were born. Most recently, Anya interned with the Ministry of Legal and Constitutional Affairs in Jamaica, researching the roadblocks to Jamaica’s transition from a constitutional monarchy to a democratic republic.
At Wake Forest, Anya spends time on a mock trial team where she serves as an Executive Member, a Board Member of AfriCasa and a Research Assistant to a Wake Forest law professor. She is involved in Wake Forest’s African and Caribbean Association, Momentum Dance Crew and Anthony Ashton Players. At the top of Anya’s bucket list is attending a Steelers v. Ravens football game, watching the Olympics in person and seeing Childish Gambino and SZA in concert. When Anya graduates from college, she hopes to attend law school and pursue a career as a medical malpractice attorney.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: From this internship with Cornerstone, I am hoping to develop in both personal and academic aspects. Academically, I hope to gain a greater understanding and knowledge of advocacy, domestic politics and global perspectives, and to cultivate a strong connection with professionals that align with my career aspirations. Additionally, I hope to explore different career options related to politics, legislation and law. In addition to the areas of professional development discussed above, my goal is that this internship will help me to further develop lifelong characteristics of intellectual curiosity. Being around fellow interns, being exposed to different professionals, and learning new things will excite me and push me to be the best person and intern I can be. Interning will help me to further develop skills in intercultural communication, legal research and writing, leadership and project management.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: Venturing to St. Vincent and the Grenadines annually, with my parents, has allowed me to develop a strong interest in the political well-being of the nation and others in the Caribbean. I became intrigued by the economic disparities between these countries and the U.S., and how the fragility of the Caribbean economy could be impacted by American policies. This birth of interest in government affairs continued to develop as I was exposed to my mother, who holds a master’s in public and international Affairs, analyzing various public policies for the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to bring them in alignment with international standards. This interest inspired me to pursue opportunities related to government relations and policy, early in my education. Experiences like being a U.S. Youth Ambassador and delegate at Palmetto Girls States, solidified my interest and inclination to learn more about government affairs.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I learned how to make balloon animals and now I’m pretty good at it!
Lily Kalandijan (Policy Intern): Lily Kalandjian is a recent graduate of the University of Florida, where she earned a bachelor’s degree with a double major in political science and Chinese. Originally from Parkland, Florida, Lily’s passion for politics and government relations was deeply shaped by the tragic Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting. Following this tragedy, she committed herself to advocating for meaningful policy change, a dedication she carried into her college years. At the University of Florida, Lily served as Vice President of the College Democrats, working on local and statewide campaigns to drive policy reform. She also served as a Junior Research Fellow in the Political Science Department and as a student ambassador and tour guide with the Florida Cicerones.
Lily has also gained extensive experience through various internships at multiple levels of government. Locally, she worked as a Policy Research Fellow for the City of Gainesville, focusing on community-centered policy initiatives, including gun violence prevention programs. At the state level, she interned with the Florida State House, addressing statewide issues such as rising insurance and housing costs. On the national stage, Lily served as both a Congressional and White House intern, where she tracked legislation, drafted briefings and regularly corresponded with constituents. These roles have not only deepened her understanding of the legislative process but have also highlighted the intricate ways in which policy directly affects the lives of everyday Americans. Now, at Cornerstone, Lily is eager to further explore policy issues while honing her skills in research and policy development to drive meaningful legislative initiatives.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: Through this internship, I hope to deepen my understanding of policy development and implementation, with a particular focus on how collaboration between the public and private sectors can lead to effective and sustainable outcomes. I’m especially interested in exploring policy areas that address pressing social issues, such as education, healthcare and environmental sustainability. As a member of the policy team at Cornerstone, I look forward to gaining insights into these complex areas while also refining my skills in research, analysis and advocacy. I am eager to learn from professionals, apply strategic thinking to real-world challenges, and contribute meaningfully to the development of policies that have a lasting impact. Additionally, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to engage with diverse stakeholders and to understand the nuances of balancing various interests to achieve common goals.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: My interest in government relations and public affairs began in my hometown of Parkland, FL, following the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. I witnessed firsthand how individuals and groups could effectively engage with the government to advocate for legislative change. This passion was fueled as I entered college, where I joined organizations focused on promoting public policy that fosters a more equal and just society. Since then, I have had the opportunity to work in various levels of government, where I have seen firsthand how policy affects the lives of everyday Americans. Through these experiences, I have become particularly interested in bridging the gap between people and politics to pass impactful legislation in Congress.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I attended an international school from a young age, where I had the opportunity to learn Mandarin. I then majored in Chinese and took classes in Mandarin. This experience significantly broadened my worldview and shaped my passion for understanding people from diverse backgrounds.
Akil Kasubhai (OpsWatch Intern): Akil is a pre-law senior at the University of Michigan, majoring in political science with minors in law, justice, social change and quantitative methods in social sciences. At Michigan, Akil is involved in various organizations. He serves as the President of the Undergraduate Political Science Association, Chair of Professional Development at Michigan Political Consulting and Political Director of the Statewide Michigan College Democrats. In his free time, Akil also researches social justice and Indigenous Africa.
Last summer, Akil interned at the ACLU of Michigan. He also has prior experience working with the Office of the Chief of Staff at the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. House of Representatives and as a County Judge. Akil’s interests include economic development in the Rust Belt, and he is currently writing a thesis on the impact of the Biden-Harris administration investments on public opinion. Outside academics, he enjoys reading, film reviewing, backpacking and teaching public speaking and debate. You can often find him exploring new hiking trails and bookstores!
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: I’m excited to dive into the world of government policy, exploring the various stakeholders and the intricate ways policies play out, along with getting a better grasp on how government funding works. What I’m looking forward to, though, is connecting with and learning from the amazing staff and fellow interns.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: My passion for government relations took off during my time on the Hill and grew even more at Commerce, where I saw firsthand how government relations experts maximize policy impact. I’m also fascinated by the wide range of policies involved in government affairs and am excited by how much there is to discover and learn.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I keep a quotebook where I jot down memorable things people say. It’s a little collection of gems that I love looking back on!
Justin King (Policy Intern): Justin is a native New Yorker and has recently graduated from Dartmouth College, where he double majored in government and history. During his time at Dartmouth, Justin took a summer course on international trade at the London School of Economics and spent time as a Research Intern for two New York City Private Equity firms. On campus, Justin served as a tour guide, a volunteer for the Dartmouth Center for Social Impact, an editor for the World Outlook Journal of International Affairs and a member of the club soccer team. In addition, Justin worked as an independent researcher for Martha Johnson, a government professor, explicitly focusing on the policy ramifications of Chinese foreign aid to African democracies. Justin presented his research at the 2023 annual meeting of the African Studies Association and is currently working to submit a paper summarizing his findings to political science journals. Justin is an avid fan of the English Premier League and, in his free time, enjoys running, reading and playing soccer.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: I am excited to begin to learn the ins and outs of the government relations industry. At Cornerstone, I feel I can make connections and gain the concrete skills to kickstart an exciting career in policy. I look forward to gaining experience in a wide variety of policy areas and deciding what specific role I want to play in the policymaking process going forward.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: I have been interested in US history and politics for as long as I can remember but first decided to pursue policy as a career path while interning at a private equity firm. At this firm, I saw that policy developments in relevant fields are just as important to a business’s strategic considerations as their financial data or market projections. After further research, I decided that working in government relations would offer a perfect mix of the business-facing strategy that originally drew me to private equity and the intensive policy research that I enjoyed conducting throughout my time at Dartmouth.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I was born in London and hold dual citizenship in the United States and the United Kingdom!
Olaide Lemoru (Compliance Intern): Olaide Lemoru is a first-generation Nigerian-American born and raised in New York City. She graduated from the University of Buffalo with a degree in sociology and health & human services with a minor in Africana studies. After college, she returned to New York to work with the New York City Department of Social Services, Office of Legal Affairs. In this role, she dedicates herself to combating discriminatory housing practices and homelessness while directing low-income tenants to proper legal representation throughout court procedures.
Olaide is a rising second-year law student at the George Washington University Law School. While school remains a top priority, she remains focused on her faith, family and discovering herself. She aspires to use her talents to build meaningful relationships and encourage people to take steps toward their goals. She is passionate about educating people and would like to use that passion in communities to spark interest, increase productivity and motivate others.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: I hope to witness the day-to-day work of this field, gain experience and knowledge in an area where I could work postgrad, build a network, and gain meaningful relationships and mentorship. I have minimal expectations so that I can have a complete experience. I am a sponge and hope to earn as much as I can.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: My interest in public affairs stems from my upbringing. I am from a small, excluded neighborhood in NYC. Established people did not surround me, and their lack of success was due to minimal knowledge, representation, and direction. Because of this, I like to educate and be a resource. I have found myself working in government, where I was in service to the public, and I enjoyed those experiences. Government/public affairs also show me love and interest; it is now a mutual relationship.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: While I have many things I am passionate about, I spent one summer trying new activities each week to find my passion. I am still looking for and have many more places to explore!
Michael Mason (Policy Intern): Michael Mason is a junior at James Madison University majoring in political science, minoring in legal studies, and honors interdisciplinary studies. Michael grew up in Newport News, Virginia, and spent summers doing various jobs, such as working in construction, at a marina and a climbing gym. While at James Madison, he is part of multiple groups, such as the marching band, climbing club and the moot court club. After college, he hopes to pursue law school and become a practicing attorney.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: I’m looking to discover the various ways I can apply the subject matter that I have learned in college to real world professions. I also look forward to building professional relations and expanding my networking skills.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: I started to become interested in government relations during my senior year of high school after having an incredible government teacher sparked my interest in the subject. That same year, I joined the Newport News mayor’s youth commission which provided an opportunity for me to discover how my voice could impact my community. This led me to eventually pursue political science in college.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I’m an avid rock climber who enjoys going to a climbing gym on a weekly basis!
Ja’Shaylee Minor (Policy Intern): Ja’Shaylee Minor is a driven political science student from the small southern town of Pascagoula, Mississippi, with a minor in strategic, legal and mass communications from Howard University. Her commitment to education and public service was evident early on when she simultaneously earned her associate degree from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College while still in high school. Ja’Shaylee’s passion for public service was ignited through her active participation in the Pascagoula Mayor’s Youth Council, the Mississippi Department of Education Student Advisory Council, and the FEMA Region 4 Youth Preparedness Council. In these roles, she engaged with local and state government leaders and played a significant part in shaping policies and initiatives that directly impacted her community.
Ja’Shaylee has gained substantial experience through internships across various legal and governmental sectors, including serving as an intern for a congresswoman on Capitol Hill in the U.S. House of Representatives, where she conducted legislative research and contributed to policy discussions. At the Office of National Drug Control Policy within the White House, she provided critical support in stakeholder engagement and policy analysis, broadening her understanding of federal public administration. Additionally, her internship at a civil law firm in Mississippi allowed her to witness the practical application of legal principles in a community setting. As she continues her academic and professional journey, she is eager to leverage this knowledge in her future career as an attorney.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: In this internship, I aim to deepen my understanding of the strategic processes that drive government relations, policy, and public affairs. My previous internships have provided valuable experience in policy research and analysis, but I am eager to explore the intricacies of strategic planning and advocacy efforts that are essential to achieving policy objectives. I am particularly interested in learning how to effectively engage with a broad range of stakeholders to drive positive outcomes. This opportunity at Cornerstone will allow me to develop a comprehensive skill set in strategic communications, lobbying, and the practical application of political strategy, while also helping me build a strong professional network.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: My interest in government relations and public affairs began during high school when I joined my home city’s Mayor’s Youth Council, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 4 Youth Preparedness Council, and the Mississippi Department of Education Student Advisory Council. As a member of the Mayor’s Youth Council, I had the opportunity to engage with local government leaders and contribute to initiatives that directly impacted my community, which allowed me to understand the importance of civic engagement and the impact that effective government policies can have at the local level. Simultaneously, my participation in the FEMA Region 4 Youth Preparedness Council exposed me to the critical role of federal agencies in disaster management and community resilience. I collaborated with other young leaders to promote emergency preparedness in our communities, deepening my understanding of the intersection between public policy and public safety. Additionally, my involvement in the Mississippi Department of Education Student Advisory Council allowed me to contribute to statewide educational policy discussions, further fueling my passion for government relations. These experiences collectively sparked my passion for policy and public affairs, as I recognized the significant role that strategic communication and advocacy play in shaping policies.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I have an identical sister who is older than me by just 2 minutes! My twin is also pursuing her goal of becoming an attorney, and we love to support each other’s shared aspirations!
Connor Stanton (Policy Intern): Connor Stanton is a senior at the College of William & Mary, majoring in government. This past semester, he studied abroad in Athens, Greece, where he explored Greek history with a particular emphasis on Byzantium and included field studies of sites significant to the Byzantine Empire. Before this, he spent a month in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on a field study to collect testimony about state-sponsored terror. Connor interned at the Eighth District Court of Appeals in Ohio this summer. This opportunity gave him experience researching and drafting bench memoranda in preparation for oral arguments and appellate resolutions.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: I am looking forward to learning how government relations professionals navigate the federal policymaking process to secure positive outcomes for stakeholders.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: I have been interested in the policymaking that undergirds American politics and international affairs for as long as I can remember. Throughout my education, I have sought opportunities premised on critical thinking and analysis, from Mock Trial and Model UN in high school to government and philosophy coursework in college. I enjoy navigating the arguments advocates present in support of their positions. I am interested in the capacity of government relations to deliver effective policy outcomes for American citizens.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I solo-traveled to Corleone, Italy, to explore my great-great-grandparents’ village and was successful in my search to meet living relatives from a missing branch of my family tree.
Jordan Stump (Operations Intern): Jordan is originally from Northeast Ohio but is excited to call DC her new home. She is a former NCAA II Athlete and a recent graduate of Notre Dame College. At Notre Dame, she obtained a B.A. in Finance, participated as a member of Sigma Beta Delta, and competed on the Women’s Swim Team. Jordan’s time as a student-athlete taught her to take the initiative and adapt to challenges. Above all, it allowed her to appreciate and thrive in a team-oriented and dynamic environment. She loves working with other people and collaborating to achieve shared goals. Jordan is eager to see what opportunities will come during her time as an Operations Intern at Cornerstone!
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: I am looking to gain better insight into the processes of public affairs, where my skills can best be utilized, and which areas my passions best align with. I am also excited to collaborate with others and learn from their different viewpoints and experiences.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: I feel that I have always been passionate about advocating for and serving others. I believe that involving myself in public affairs could work as a catalyst to further ignite my eagerness to make a difference. Furthermore, I want to be in an environment which will foster a space for me to grow on both a professional and personal level, and I wholeheartedly believe that this is the right path for me.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I spent the last two summers as an ocean lifeguard in the Outer Banks!
Gwen Tatara (OpsWatch Intern): Gwen Tatara is a senior at the University of Michigan studying public policy at the Ford School with a minor in quantitative methods. She is originally from Maine but grew up in Dexter, Michigan. Last summer, Gwen interned for the State Department to monitor and combat human trafficking and hopes to bring insights from this experience to her role at Cornerstone.
On campus, Gwen has been involved in the University of Michigan’s Central Student Government and is now the Director of Policy for sexual misconduct. She is also the Chair of Client Services for Michigan’s Political Consulting, a student-run organization. In addition, Gwen has spent time as a research assistant for the University of Michigan Law School. In her free time, Gwen enjoys running, watching reality television with her roommates and trying new restaurants.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: Having worked in a federal government office dedicated to awarding grants to non-profits and foreign governments, I hope to use this experience to help Cornerstone clients obtain the funding they need to achieve their goals. As an OpsWatch intern, I am also hoping to learn more about consulting and public affairs and develop my communication and analytical skills.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: During my first internship with a political campaign, I found that I had the most meaningful conversations with voters around real-world policy topics. My experiences interning for the Federal Government and in my university’s student government also developed my passion for public service.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I’ve been a vegetarian since I was 14 and have never eaten chicken!
Sriman Thangaraj (Policy Intern): Sriman Thangaraj is a diligent and accomplished individual pursuing a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Applied Politics at American University. With a background in political science, Sriman has excelled in various internships, including roles at Results for America and Forbes Tate Partners. His work spans critical areas such as public affairs, campaign finance and government affairs. Sriman has contributed to several esteemed publications, such as the Tri-Co Law Review and Stanford Economic Review.
Sriman is an Eagle Scout of Troop 143. His interests include hiking, watching movies and TV shows and traveling worldwide. He spent his last undergraduate semester studying abroad in Greece and presented his undergraduate capstone at NCUR 2024 in Long Beach, California.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: I want to gain meaningful exposure to understanding how clients can shape the legislative discussion outside Capitol Hill.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: Throughout high school, I wanted to pursue industrial engineering. However, at the end of junior year, I felt it was not the right path for me, and I decided to explore politics as a career path. Once I got to AU, I became more interested in exploring the public-private relationship that government relations had to offer.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I have a twin sister!
Aidan Thornbrough (Public Affairs Intern): Aidan Thornbrough is a junior at American University majoring in Political Science, with a Policy specialization and minoring in Economics and Spanish. This past spring, he worked as an Intern in the U.S. House of Representatives. In this role, he strengthened his understanding of the legislative process and worked on various legislative and communications projects. After graduation, Aidan aspires to attend law school. In his free time, he loves reading, photography, going to the gym and trying new restaurants and cafes in D.C.
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: I hope to learn about how consulting firms bridge that gap between the private and public sectors while gaining hands-on experience in the government relations field. I am excited to continue developing my understanding of the policymaking process from a new perspective and deepen my understanding of policy areas I am passionate about, such as economic policy and environmental policy.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: My interest in public affairs grew during my time as an intern in the US House of Representatives. While assisting members of the Communications Team with various projects, I learned about the role that the media plays in shaping public perception of government affairs and the importance of developing a concise message for the right audience. I really enjoyed how the projects that I worked on allowed me to combine my passion for policy and utilize my research skills to inform others about current events and various policy matters.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I was a barista and love doing latte art!
Gabrielle Trieloff (Public Affairs Intern): Ellie Trieloff is a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison pursuing a degree in journalism, with an emphasis in strategic communications, and a certificate in German. In her first year of college, she ran track at UW-Eau Claire before transferring to UW-Madison. Entering her final year of undergrad, she plans on taking the LSAT in the spring and attending law school within the next 3-4 years. On campus, she helped conduct research that analyzed political rhetoric and satire associated with the #MeToo movement on Twitter. This further fueled her curiosity about how people use language in political contexts.
She additionally worked for Wisconsin’s alum association, where she engaged donors to raise funds through over-the-phone outreaches and gained valuable experience navigating – sometimes – difficult conversations. Ellie is part of the University’s Wisconsin Speech and Debate Club and Asian American Student Union. Outside of campus life, she loves to travel, camp, and cook or bake in her free time!
Q: What do you hope to gain from this internship?
A: I’m excited to pursue my interest in public affairs and gain more experience in the formulation and implementation of strategic communications campaigns. I also hope to learn from the Cornerstone team to understand better what a career in government/public affairs might be like.
Q: How did you become interested in government and/or public affairs?
A: Initially, I became interested in government affairs when I started working closely with social media messaging in coursework and past internships. Since then, I’ve been curious about how brands, companies and individuals leverage communications as a strategic asset. From this, I also became interested in exploring how effective messaging efforts can bridge gaps and drive success in related and unrelated fields.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I love to play cards; My favorite game is Euchre!
Continuing from the Summer to the Fall intern class:
James Theus (Public Affairs Intern)