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By Ezra Foote
During the first semester of my freshman year at the McConnell Center,
I made a decision that would shape my college experience I chose to
attend one of the Center’s signature programs, C3s: Coffee, Careers,
and Conversations. This programing occurs early in the morning where
the center hosts renowned professionals, experts, and alumni to speak
and meet with scholars.
That particular C3 was especially memorable because we hosted Dr.
Jasmine Farrier, a renowned professor at the University of Louisville.
During her workshop, she spoke about the University of Louisville’s
Frankfort Internship Program, which sends more than 40 students each year to intern at the Kentucky State
Capitol during the legislative session.
The moment I heard about the program, I was ecstatic.
As someone from Western Kentucky, trips to Frankfort were rare. In fact, I had only been there a
couple of times in my life. The idea that I could spend a semester working in our state’s capital
and becoming immersed in the legislative process felt surreal. I knew immediately that I wanted
to be part of it.
After applying and being accepted into the program, I decided to intern with my state
senator, Jason Howell. I will never forget my first day of the internship. This year is a budget
session, and the hustle and bustle of Frankfort was nonstop
The pace in Frankfort is unlike anything I have ever experienced. It feels like every 30 minutes
we are heading to a new meeting, whether it is a committee hearing, a constituent meeting, or a
discussion with an industry group. One moment we are meeting with veterans, the next with
teachers, and then with citizens advocating for issues they care deeply about. Every day brings
new perspectives and new conversations.
One of my favorite parts of this experience has been meeting individuals from across Western
Kentucky. There is something incredibly special about seeing your community represented in the
legislative process and knowing you get to play a small part in it. I even had the honor to speak
to an organization important to my community: the Murray Chamber of Commerce about my
internship experience.
Another highlight of the internship has been connecting with fellow student interns from across
the state. I have had the chance to meet students from Eastern Kentucky University, Northern
Kentucky University, and the University of Kentucky. Learning from one another and sharing
our different perspectives has been fascinating.
Looking back, attending that C3 event during my freshman year was one of the best decisions I
have made in college. What started as a simple 8 a.m. conversation, turned into an opportunity
that has profoundly impacted my life and career trajectory.
The University of Louisville’s Frankfort Internship Program has given me more than
professional experience. It has given me confidence, clarity, friendships, and a deeper
appreciation for the legislative process.
Ezra is a McConnell Scholar at the University of Louisville in the class of 2029. He is studying political science.