Lauren Davis, MIA Class of 2017
- Where and with whom did you do your internship?
In Washington, D.C. for the Executive Office of the President (US Trade Representative-Central and South Asian Affairs). - What were your primary responsibilities?
My primary responsibilities included drafting documents related to the Trade Facility Agreement in conjunction with the WTO, attending and participating in senior level meetings, engaging with industry associations and the US Chamber of Commerce, attending interagency meetings, testifying before the Congressional House Ways and Means Committee, drafting talking points for the Ambassador, preparing memos, speech writing, and drafting and obtaining clearance for Trade Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) Council minutes. - Which of your previous classes or learning experiences were most useful to you during the internship?
Dr. Robertson and Dr. Mu’s economics based classes provided a solid foundation; also prior work experience in a law firm aided with drafting official documents and reading through trade agreements/laws. - What were the highlights or most important learning opportunities from your internship experience?
Having my documents circulated throughout the agency/private sector/other areas of government; also interacting with the head of the agency and being involved with various stakeholders, especially leaders from other countries. - Do you have any advice for first year Bush School students who may be applying for an internship for this summer?
Visit the Career experts to tighten up your resume and make sure it accurately reflects your achievements. Also, be a self-starter and learn to be self-sufficient with little instruction. Often times you will be given meaningful responsibilities with little direction—in these situations, you must use personal judgment. USTR is not an internship where you’ll be making coffee.
