Seeing Civic Education from a New Perspective – Civics Intern

Before starting my internship at the Indiana Bar Foundation, I experienced civic education mainly as a student participant in We the People. I am currently part of the HSE We the People team, which recently became state champions and will be traveling to Washington, D.C. to represent Team Indiana. While I understood the value of the program as a student, this internship has given me an entirely new perspective on how these opportunities are made possible

During my internship, I have worked with civic education programs such as We the People and Mock Trial, focusing on teacher and school outreach and assisting with the planning of regional competitions, including the South Bend Regionals. Seeing the organizational side of these programs has helped me realize how much coordination and preparation are required to support students at every level, from the classroom to state to national competitions.

Being involved in We the People both as a student and as an intern has been especially meaningful. As a competitor, I focus on preparation, teamwork, and performance. As an intern, I now see the dedication of staff, educators, and volunteers who work behind the scenes to ensure students have access to high-quality civic education experiences. This has deepened my appreciation for the program and reinforced how impactful civic education can be when supported by strong leadership and community involvement.

I have also been fortunate enough to work closely with Megan Jolly and Amelia Miller, who have become incredibly supportive and welcoming throughout my internship. Their guidance has helped me grow more confident and comfortable taking on new responsibilities.

Overall, my internship at the Indiana Bar Foundation has reshaped how I view civic education programs. It has shown me the importance of getting the work done behind the scenes and has strengthened my commitment to civic engagement. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this mission while also participating in We the People as a student.