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Rachel Paige Casey | Internship Spotlight

Rachel Paige Casey

Rachel Paige Casey, MIA Class of 2018

  1. Where and with whom did you do your internship?
    This past summer I was a research intern for the joint programs US Leadership and Development (USLD) and Project on Prosperity and Development (PPD) at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, DC.
  2. What were your primary responsibilities?
    My primary responsibilities included research on the World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) implementation, co-authoring a commentary on the implementation of the TFA (which can be viewed here: https://www.csis.org/analysis/clock-has-started-tfa-implementation), and researching a variety of other topics and projects in international development, such as forced migration, foreign aid graduation, and the UN data revolution. I helped construct a set of six memos for a newly appointed government official as well as drafted memos for internal purposes. Additionally, I was tasked with editing and proofing several reports and articles for affiliates and funders. The department I worked for hosted several round tables and public panels throughout the summer that I helped prepare and run.
  3. Which of your previous classes or learning experiences were most useful to you during the internship?
    My international development courses with Professor Natsios were very helpful, specifically his memo-writing assignments. My international trade class with Dr. Robertson helped me write the TFA commentary and contribute to other projects on the topic of international trade.
  4. What were the highlights or most important learning opportunities from your internship experience?
    The TFA commentary and accompanying launch event at CSIS were the highlights. I was given the opportunity to exercise my knowledge in international trade and converse with experts from public and private entities regarding the TFA, its operationalization under US leadership, and the associated benefits.
  5. Do you have any advice for first year Bush School students who may be applying for an internship for this summer?
    Start the internship search early. Consult your Bush School professors on advice for internship hunting, little-known opportunities, or even to reach out to their networks in search of opportunities that may not be posted in an official manner.