Determining a field of study and pursuing that major post-college can be daunting, especially for those plagued with indecisiveness like me.
I started and ended my freshman year with an undecided major, then gave social work a try my sophomore year. To fulfill a required credit my sophomore year, I enrolled in my first political science course, thinking this was another class to come and go. After a submitted essay assignment, the course professor—unaware of my struggle to find the right major—asked if I had ever considered majoring in political science. Having changed my major twice already, I figured, why not try a third? That decision would change the trajectory of my entire future.
After years of feeling educationally disheartened, I finally found my spark.
Then in an independent study my senior year, the same professor who introduced me to political science told me of UT’s Government Relations and Advocacy (GR&A) Internship.
I wanted to continue learning about the various paths political science has to offer, so applying for the internship seemed a no-brainer. Not only did I experience a legislative session in-person, but I also worked as an advocate for a university I cared deeply for.
This internship and the experiences provided by the GR&A team far surpassed any expectations I had. The team submersed me into the legislative session, which provided deeper insight into state government than would be achievable in a classroom.
During the 2023 legislative session, The Covenant School in Nashville experienced a school shooting that devastated the city. From the heartache brought by this event, I witnessed individuals with differing political views rally behind each other and form a community based on a shared goal of fighting to keep children safe. Being present for such a powerful experience solidified what I wanted for my future. I want to be present for the tough conversations and be part of a team that ensures those conversations are held.
Now, I have the privilege to work in a field applicable to my interests and pertinent to my degree, all thanks to this internship. I was able to put my major into action and determine whether this was a career path I wanted to pursue. I was presented with opportunities through this internship which provided connections to help build my future.
This internship and the team at UT GR&A continue to advocate for me and support me through my professional career. Though I have had an immeasurable amount of help along the way, this internship catapulted me into success. During my time in the internship and with the team, I found a passion I did not know I had.
My spark grew into a flame during my internship and provided me the ignition I need to turn that flame into a fire in the future.
Julia Law (UT Martin ’23) is a political science graduate with experience in legislative advocacy and government relations. She has held roles in UT’s Government Relations, Advocacy and Economic Development office and has been actively involved in policy development and public service initiatives. She currently serves as a legislative coordinator for the Tennessee Department of Transportation.
