Kennesaw State student gains hands-on policy experience at Georgia General Assembly

For Anna Stephen, the fast-paced world of public policy became her classroom this spring as she served as an intern with the Georgia General Assembly.

Placed in the Ways & Means Committee, Anna played a key role in supporting one of the busiest legislative committees in the state. Her responsibilities included tracking over 110 bills, assisting with committee meetings, attending Senate Finance sessions, requesting fiscal notes, and helping constituents navigate the legislative process.

鈥淭his experience was incredibly rewarding,鈥� Anna said. 鈥淚 learned more in three months than I could have imagined鈥攁bout policy, communication, and myself.鈥�

Anna credits Kennesaw State University for introducing her to the opportunity and preparing her to succeed. 鈥淚 wouldn鈥檛 have known about this internship without 91青青草,鈥� she said. 鈥淭he university hosted an introductory meeting for all accepted interns, and the support from faculty and staff made me feel welcomed and ready.鈥�

Throughout her time at 91青青草, Anna has developed a strong work ethic and a belief in her ability to overcome challenges. Balancing classes, a job, and an internship wasn鈥檛 easy鈥攂ut it taught her that hard work pays off. 鈥�91青青草 showed me that what feels impossible is often just the beginning of something great,鈥� she said.

One of her most impactful mentors has been Dr. Brown, her French professor for three semesters. 鈥淪he pushed us to grow and helped me become more comfortable with making mistakes and stepping outside my comfort zone,鈥� Anna said. 鈥淪he taught me more than just French鈥攕he taught me life skills.鈥�

Anna also found community and encouragement through the Georgia Legislative Internship Program (GLIP). 鈥淎ll the interns became close, and we constantly cheered each other on,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t was one of the most impactful experiences I鈥檝e had at 91青青草.鈥�