Interning with the Department of Homeland Security at FEMA Headquarters

Written by: Faith Odiete (BSCJ’24, MPA Candidate)

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to intern with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Headquarters in Washington, D.C. I found the position on the USA Jobs website and decided to apply because of my strong interest in public service and wanting to work for the federal government. The application process required a lot of preparation, but my background and experiences helped me stand out. When I received the offer, I was thrilled to take on a role that aligned so closely with my career goals.

At FEMA, I worked in the Acquisition Management and Business Relations Branch. My main responsibilities included helping with acquisition planning, disaster preparedness, developing policies to support FEMA’s mission, reviewing SOPs, and conducting program reviews. I also assisted with data reporting and analysis, which gave me a better understanding of how FEMA manages resources to prepare for and respond to disasters. The work was challenging but incredibly rewarding because I knew that what I was doing was making a real difference.

Living and working in Washington, D.C., was an exciting experience. The city is full of energy and opportunities, and it was inspiring to be surrounded by people who are passionate about making a difference. In my free time, I explored the city’s historical landmarks and connected with other professionals and O’Neill alumni, which made the experience even more enriching. Balancing work and life in D.C. taught me how to manage my time and adapt to a fast-paced environment.

The O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs has been instrumental in shaping both my academic and professional journeys, providing me with the knowledge, skills, and resources I needed to excel during my internship with FEMA. As an undergraduate Criminal Justice major, I learned about topics like policing, courts, and corrections, which gave me a strong foundation in public safety and justice systems. This foundation allowed me to approach FEMA’s work with a unique perspective on how public organizations operate to serve and protect communities.

Beyond academics, the O’Neill School’s supportive faculty and staff have been invaluable. Professors provided not only guidance in the classroom but also mentorship and encouragement as I navigated opportunities like the FEMA internship. Their real-world expertise and practical advice gave me the confidence to take on challenges and push myself outside of my comfort zone. The O’Neill advising team also was always there to help me refine my resume, prepare for interviews, and connect me with resources like professional workshops and networking events.

The O’Neill School’s emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement set me up for success. Through leadership roles, mentorship programs, and hands-on projects, I had the chance to develop skills like teamwork, problem solving, and adaptability. These experiences directly translated to the work I did at FEMA, where collaboration and quick decision making were key to managing disaster preparedness and acquisition tasks.

In addition to my education, my past experiences played a big role in preparing me for this internship. As a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, I’ve developed leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills that I used daily at FEMA. My time as a law enforcement cadet with Indiana University also taught me discipline and how to handle high-pressure situations, which helped me stay focused and confident during the internship.

This experience with FEMA has been a turning point for me. It showed me how much I enjoy working in roles that combine policy and practice, especially in public service. I’ve gained skills that will stay with me for a lifetime, like how to approach challenges with a strategic mindset and how to work effectively as part of a team. Most importantly, I’ve solidified my passion for public service and my goal of continuing to make a positive impact on communities.

Looking back, I’m so grateful for this opportunity. My time with FEMA and in Washington, D.C., has taught me so much about myself and my career goals. For anyone thinking about applying for a federal internship, my advice is simple: be persistent, take advantage of your education and experiences, and always stay open to learning. The journey might not always be easy, but it’s absolutely worth it.