Name: Michael Gregory

Hometown: Dearborn, MI

Major: Political Science and Moral and Political Philosophy

Internship Placement: Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia

 

Why did you decide to do Michigan in Washington?

I saw Michigan in Washington as an opportunity to continue my political science education, gain practical work experience, and to learn how to live and adjust in a new environment away from home. I figured that this program would allow me to pursue my professional and academic interests while still having a great time in a great place and that is exactly how this experience is turning out.

What do you do during a typical day at your internship?

On any given day at the OAG, I am reviewing and preparing case materials for the attorneys in my department or conducting research about our current suits; it is a very hands on experience in which I get to work on cases directly with the attorneys. Additionally, I often go to court with the attorneys for trials and hearings to learn more about court procedures and even get to attend things like training sessions to strengthen my legal reading and writing skills.

Which elective are you taking and what’s the most interesting part of the class?

I chose to take Prof. Scalli-Hanna’s elective course on Youth, Social Media and Development. The class focuses on looking at how technology and social media can be used to encourage positive youth development across the globe with emphasis in developing countries. Although the subject matter is very interesting, I also enjoy that each class features a lot of group discussion. The entire course focuses on ways to develop youth, like ourselves, and we have a lot of opportunities to offer personal insight and experience on the subject as a result. Plus, prof. Scalli-Hanna is always engaging, entertaining, and full of energy.

What do you like to do in D.C. during your free time?

My favorite thing to do in D.C. with my free time is to attend sports games like the Capitals, Wizards, or Georgetown basketball. However, there are also endless amounts of great places to visit ranging from museums to historical sights to theatrical performances. No matter what you are interested in, there is a place in D.C. to accommodate that interest. Also, I spend a lot of time with the other members of my cohort and encourage others to do the same. We come from all different walks of life and corners of the world and it is really amazing to get to know completely different people that have similar interests as myself.

What’s something on your D.C. bucket list?

As someone that is very interested in legal studies, I would love to attend an official Supreme Court hearing before I leave. There are certain days where members of the public can do this if they arrive at the Supreme Court early enough (like 5 a.m. early). Although I may have to give up a few hours of sleep, I am definitely going to make sure that I get the opportunity to watch the Supreme Court live in action.

What advice would you give to a student interested in Michigan in Washington?

Michigan in Washington is the perfect opportunity to meet new and incredible people, get one step closer to your professional goals, and experience what it’s like to live in the political capital of the country. If you have any doubts as to whether or not you will find an internship of your liking or if you will be able to manage all the responsibilities of the program, try not to. The staff of the program really dedicate their time to making sure that you have an amazing experience and this includes making sure that you have the right support before and during the program’s start. This program could be the first or the next big step in your professional career and can be an amazing opportunity to get your foot in the door in a number of ways.

Always remember, you miss 100% of the shots that you don’t take.

- Wayne Gretzky

- Michael Scott

- Michael Gregory