Earlier this year, I sat down with Danielle Wallace to talk about her internship here at EOI. Here’s what she had to say:

Why did you decide to come work for EOI this summer?

I am passionate about social and economic policy, and thought EOI would be a great place to develop my analysis skills this summer. I had followed EOI’s Seattle Sick Days work as well as some of EOI’s other policy research, so was aware of the amazing research and advocacy presence EOI has in the Seattle area. I wanted to be part of an organization that stands for progressive values that align with my own.

What project are you working on, and what’s exciting about it?

I work as a Qualitative Research Intern for the Social Mobility Project. I love my work here because I have am able to both hear stories from  fascinating Washington residents and research economic trends. Both are activities that I would be happy to do on my free time (but I get paid to do them!)

How do you think your EOI experience will be useful for you in the future?

At EOI, I have developed some really practical policy research skills, while learning the ins-and-outs of policy analysis and advocacy from super talented colleagues. Additionally, EOI partners with some really incredible community organizations, so it’s been wonderful to meet and learn from so many analysts and organizers.

What is one thing that has surprised you about working here?

Maybe it was my ignorance of public policy research organizations that made me think this, but I imagined this type of organization to be much more stodgy. Everyone at EOI has been super welcoming and supportive, and I really appreciate the convivial atmosphere here that welcomes policy discussion.

What’s one thing you wish you had known/studied more before starting your internship?

The most efficient way to transcribe! I do a lot of transcribing stories and I’m still trying to figure out the most time-effective method. Other than that, I wish I had known a little more about the history of Washington’s industries. I had an idea, but I am more and more surprised at how much the Washington economy has changed in the last 50-100 years!

What advice would you give to someone who wants a policy internship and/or an internship at EOI?

Stay current on Washington State and local policy. Not only is it relevant to your day-to-day, it’ll be imperative to your work at EOI.

[Editor’s Note: Interested in an internship at EOI? Read all about them right here.]