More Than Politics: Finding Purpose in Constituent Work

By Catalina Grieco

Last week, I began my summer internship with a U.S. Congressman representing Florida’s 16th District. From the start, I was reminded of the formalities required in constituent communication, trained on essential software systems, and briefed on the rules governing House Ethics. While these details form the foundation of the work, I have quickly realized that this internship is about far more than logistics. It’s about people, representation, and connection – something I already feel deeply as both a Floridian and a public servant in training.

The direct stakeholders in the work I do are the constituents of Florida’s 16th District. They call, email, and write to our office with concerns ranging from veterans’ affairs to federal benefits and disaster recovery. The scope of our work reaches far beyond the district lines. Indirect stakeholders include the entire country, as each policy decision contributes to the broader legislative landscape. Even tourists who visit our beaches are affected by how we manage infrastructure, disaster relief, and local economic development.

My connection to this work is both personal and professional. I have lived in Florida my entire life and currently reside less than a mile from the district lines. The same roads I drive are traveled by the people I now serve. The same storms that damage homes across the Gulf Coast have impacted my own family. When constituents call our office seeking help with FEMA, I understand their frustration not just academically, but emotionally. That shared experience grounds my work in empathy.

This personal connection influences how I approach the issues I encounter each day. As someone who has studied political science, I have gained a deep understanding of government structure, public policy, and political theory. This internship enables me to appreciate the significance of constituent relations and the impact of having someone on the other end of the phone who is willing to assist.

In reviewing the academic and professional literature surrounding congressional offices, I have noticed that many perspectives are those of outsiders. Scholars, researchers, and elected officials offer valuable insights, but often lack the firsthand experience of working directly with constituents. What is frequently missing are the voices of those who operate the offices: interns, staff, and aides.

That is the perspective I hope to bring to the table. I am both a student and an intern, learning about political systems while also participating in them. I believe that highlighting the lived experiences of those within congressional offices can help create a more comprehensive understanding of how democracy operates daily. I want to contribute not just as an observer but as someone with a real stake in the work.

As I look ahead, I envision myself in the role of an advocate. Constituents already take the first step by calling or writing to our office. My role is to ensure their voices are not only heard but respected and reflected in the work we do. I also see myself as a translator of sorts, helping bridge the gap between complex policies and the everyday concerns of the people they impact. I aim to amplify the stories that might otherwise go unnoticed and bring a community-centered approach to public service.

This summer, I am not just learning how a congressional office works. I am learning how to serve, listen, and represent. And most importantly, I am discovering how I fit into the larger picture of meaningful, people-first governance.