What I Learned as a Legislative Intern

Over the past nine months, I’ve served as a legislative intern with the Utah Parent Center, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at how advocacy and policy come to life in Utah. From observing the legislative process to participating in hands-on work, this experience has shaped how I understand civic engagement and disability advocacy.

Here, I share what I learned, what surprised me, and how it changed my perspective.

Expanding My Understanding of Civic Engagement

As a legislative intern, my understanding of community involvement has expanded beyond what I could learn in a classroom, with insights that shaped both my perspective and my personal growth.

I have gone from thinking only about voting to also considering how important it is to engage in the communities you care about—knowing what is going on, showing up, and being active where you can to make the most change.

Lawmakers Are People Too

I have learned that lawmakers are people just like us. They are subject to pressure from others and, like anyone, want to be liked. Sometimes, they are simply not aware of what people are experiencing unless it is shared with them.

This has shown me how individuals and communities can influence policy in very real ways.

Growing Confidence in Advocacy

Alongside this, my confidence in speaking up and advocating for myself and others has grown. I have become more assured that change can happen, which has helped me encourage others to believe in change and in a better future through advocacy.

This internship has given me the confidence to step into a world I once found intimidating—politics specifically—as a campaign volunteer and delegate.

Since beginning the internship, I have become an active member of my local political party, using my voice and experience to help shape political discussion from the ground up and ensuring my community is represented in decision-making spaces.

What I Observed Behind the Scenes

During my legislative experience, much of my time was spent helping with events and organization, but I also learned a great deal about the importance of communities standing together and how movements can grow when given space and opportunity.

I learned how different government agencies interact (or sometimes fail to interact) and how complex the system is, especially when it comes to working with policymakers. Decisions are often influenced by how effectively an agency or program can demonstrate its importance and need for priority.

What Drives Decisions

I also learned how expensive and competitive the process is, and that for bills, it is often not just about content but also about who is sponsoring them. The budget is just as important—if not more important—than many bills or resolutions.

Additionally, I learned that committee rooms are where many of the real decisions are made.

Understanding the Disability Community More Deeply

Surprises and Challenges

There were also moments of surprise and challenge throughout the internship. I was especially surprised by how active the Utah Parent Center and its partners are, and by the wide network of nonprofits, advocacy groups, and community organizations they collaborate with.

One challenge I noticed was the complexity of understanding what different organizations do and how difficult it can be for families to navigate available resources.

Final Reflections

Overall, this internship with the Utah Parent Center has shaped how I understand civic engagement, advocacy, and community involvement. It has given me insight into how systems function in practice and how individuals and communities can meaningfully influence change.

Most importantly, it has strengthened my confidence to speak up, participate, and stay involved in spaces where decisions are being made.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn through the UPC and to grow both personally and professionally through this experience.

Advocacy Resources

Disability Advocacy: Give a Voice
Advocacy and Public Policy: What does advocacy mean to you?
Guidebook to Advocacy: For Parents & Self-Advocates