Local graduates are gaining experience as interns with area lawmakers and their fellow members of the Indiana House of Representatives during the 2021 legislative session, according to Hamilton County lawmakers.
State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville) said interns play a vital role throughout the legislative session.
“These students and recent graduates have been doing important work, helping ensure things are running smoothly despite these unprecedented times,” Goodrich said. “They have done a fantastic job, and we are always fortunate to have bright young people from our local community interning with us.”
Eric Foley, a resident of Noblesville, is the son of Rick and Tara Foley. A graduate of Noblesville High School, Foley attends Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, where he is majoring in political science.
“Working at the Statehouse as an intern has been extremely fulfilling,” Foley said. “This experience helps me grow as a professional while adding more skills to my resume that can prepare me for my future career.”
Drew Formisani, also a resident of Noblesville, is the son of Richard and Shelia Formisani. He also graduated from Noblesville High School, and now Formisani attends Purdue University, where he is majoring in law and public policy.
“This internship is a truly rewarding experience, as I’ve had the opportunity to work with lawmakers and staff to serve Hoosiers across our state,” Formisani said. “I’d recommend anyone interested in law or politics to apply for the program.”
Colin Patrick, a resident of Fishers, is the son of Brian and Shelli Patrick. A graduate of Hamilton Southeastern High School, Patrick attends Purdue University, where he is majoring in political science and global studies.
“In such a unique time as this, not only is it amazing to see how the Indiana General Assembly is responding to COVID-19, but it is also incredible to help and take an active role in that response,” Patrick said. “The hands-on experience this internship provides is invaluable and will help me take the next step professionally.”
“Throughout session, interns like Colin learn new professional skills they can use after college graduation,” said State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers). “This internship is a great way to gain experience and help launch a young person’s career.”
Garrett Tiberi, a resident of Carmel, is the son of John and Sarah Tiberi. Tiberi attends IUPUI where he studies Business Management at the Kelley School of Business.
“Throughout this internship, I’ve been able to develop valuable skills employers look for and hopefully land my first job out of college,” Tiberi said. “Students from any major who are looking for an opportunity to fine tune their skills should consider applying for this internship next year.”
Rachel Winkler, a resident of Westfield, is the daughter of Steve and Karen Winkler. Winkler is a recent IUPUI graduate who earned a bachelor’s degree and majored in English.
“This internship has been such a blessing to me personally and professionally,” Winkler said. “I’ve learned so much, met so many wonderful people and love that I get to spend my work day serving our elected officials and the Hoosiers they represent.”
As legislative interns, State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel) said these Hamilton County residents correspond with constituents across the state through phone calls, letters and emails while also staffing committee hearings and floor proceedings.
“Garrett and Rachel are valuable members of our legislative staff, and they’ve shown great initiative over these last few months,” Schaibley said. “I always love meeting bright young people from our community, and I look forward to seeing these interns continue to work and grow.”
Each year, the House of Representatives offers paid internship opportunities to college students, law-school students, graduate students and recent college graduates for the duration of each legislative session.
Visit IndianaHouseRepublicans.com/internship for more information about the House Republican internship program.