Internship Location: Madison
Organization Type: Nonprofit/NGO
Policy Areas: Health & Human Services, Judicial, Transportation, Environment
Over the summer I worked as a “Government Affairs Assistant” with the Wisconsin Counties Association (WCA) in Madison, Wisconsin. In the role I assisted their legislative affairs team throughout the development of the 2025-27 Wisconsin State Budget. Throughout the summer I learned about the policy development and advocacy process as I observed WCA set its legislative priorities and lobby them to state legislators. I utilized skills I learned with La Follette such as memo writing when I created policy memos that the legislative affairs team used when meeting with elected officials. Furthermore, I used my presentation and policy analysis skills when I spoke to legislators, identifying policy shortcomings and offering alternatives that WCA supported. Throughout the process, I was surprised how much the policy development process took place outside the halls of government. WCA’s lobbyists were knowledgeable in their issue areas and often helped draft policy alongside other interest groups before presenting it to legislators. Nonetheless, this process was valuable as it helped me further develop skills such as policy writing. I also furthered my research skills as I gathered relevant data to present to legislators. Working with WCA (or in government affairs in general) is something I recommend to future students. It provides a unique viewpoint into the policy development process and WCA is a great place to work. I am excited to take the lessons I learned while working with lobbyists and apply them to topics we learn at La Follette. Additionally, I feel equipped with a unique point of view that better prepares me for a career in policy.