Sydney Wiggins, COL ’26, Philadelphia, PA
The significance of constituent services has long resonated with me. As a lifelong Philadelphia resident, I have always felt a deep-rooted commitment to serving my community. My academic journey at the University of Pennsylvania solidified my aspiration to translate this passion into a career dedicated to public service and social policy.
The opportunity to intern for the Philadelphia Council President this summer was an invaluable experience that greatly shaped my understanding of government and its impact on people’s lives. Working alongside the President’s exceptional staff, I was privileged to assist constituents throughout the city and gain firsthand exposure to the complexities and rewards of public service.
Through the Young Leaders in Government Internship Program, I honed my skills in communication, time management, writing, and governmental affairs. These competencies will undoubtedly serve as a solid foundation as I pursue a career in public leadership. Thanks to the generous support of Career Services, I was fully immersed in the dynamic environment of City Hall. Each day presented new challenges and opportunities, from attending community meetings about speed bumps and bike lanes, to learning about development plans andg participating in discussions about the upcoming tax plan. This comprehensive exposure provided me with a deep appreciation for the intricacies of urban governance and the challenges faced by our city.
I am convinced that the insights gained from this internship are invaluable. Not only have they deepened my understanding of my community, but they have also illuminated key areas of focus for my future political endeavors. I am eager to apply the knowledge and experience acquired this summer to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Philadelphia residents.
This is part of a series of posts by recipients of the 2024 Career Services Summer Funding Grant. We’ve asked funding recipients to reflect on their summer experiences and talk about the industries in which they spent their summer. You can read the entire series here
