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2015 First-Year Fellow: Garrison Roe '18

The Washington DC office of Congresswoman Ann McLane Kuster '78, where I worked as an intern this summer advises the Congresswoman on legislative issues facing the House in a way that best represents the citizens of New Hampshire’s second district and the country as a whole. In addition, the office seeks to maintain healthy relations with constituents by informing them of the Congresswoman’s initiatives, responding to concerns they express, and processing tour requests.

Garrison Roe '18 and Congresswoman Ann McLane Kuster '78 the day before August recess.

My internship taught me the importance of being proactive in seeking workplace responsibilities. I learned that my coworkers were often overwhelmed with work, which kept them from delegating tasks to the interns. However, when asked, they were often relieved to pass along more responsibilities. 

Garrison Roe '18 in front of Congresswoman Kuster's office in the Cannon House Office Building.

My favorite part of the fellowship experience was that my intern coordinator highly encouraged me to attend events that I was interested in. She allowed me to attend the Supreme Court decision on Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage across the nation. As a gay man, I was indescribably moved to be able to sit in the chamber for such a landmark civil rights case that directly affected my life. I will never forget the proud moment when Justice Kennedy began reading his opinion and it became clear that the Court had ruled in favor of marriage equality.

-Written by Garrison Roe '18

This series introduces the 2015 First-Year Fellows. Each fellow reflects on his or her experience in Washington DC as a First-Year Fellow working with a mentor in public policy.