Political Science Major Alondra Arriaga-Rosales’ Internship with the Carmichael Senate Campaign

I interned for Marc Carmichael who was running in the Democratic primary for the open US Senate seat in Indiana. After learning the various aspects of a campaign, I was able to focus on parts that needed most assistance. One example being the financial report for the campaign. I entered in all donations and expenditures for the last quarter of 2023, and some in the first quarter of this year. Another example is joining Carmichael in many of his campaign events and speaking on behalf of him. While traveling with him last semester, we noticed that I am good at passionately speaking about a topic that I care about. Because Carmichael was a very progressive candidate, especially in Indiana, I hold many values he represents. Some of those being, advocating for women’s rights and access to health care, implementing strict gun laws, and supporting LGBTQ+ communities.

Without the preparation of my political science courses, I would not have been able to articulate myself in a manner that is accessible to a more general audience. Most of the time, I was speaking to those who are marginalized, and Carmichael allotted a space for me to speak my truth about said priorities. 

https://www.marcforindiana.com/priorities

After working as intern for this campaign, I have learned that there is still an immense amount of optimism for people who identify as Democrats. Many of my courses in political science derive from data and voting polls. Interpreting those statistics can be very discouraging, especially with all the injustices going on in the state, the country, and the world. I have been able to learn how to strategically apply certain concepts I’ve learned in the campaign. One example being the way I respond to microaggressions or outright racist comments. I vividly remember picking Dr. Dusso’s brain about how he formulates questions and statements that elicit certain responses or to eliminate as much bias as possible. I am able to re-frame a question that individuals ask me that are racially motivated. 

My advice to students who are looking for an internship is, as cliché as it sounds, if an opportunity is offered even if it not your first choice, say yes. If there aren’t any offers being made, advocate for yourself. I feel like as students we tend to stay stuck in the subordinate role of teacher versus student, which can often stunt ourselves in seeking out opportunities. I have been offered, what seems small on a university scale, an opportunity and that opportunity led to another, then another. This happened by being my full authentic self while eager to learn more and meet people.