Internships are one of the defining undergraduate experiences. They give students the chance to explore a field or career of interest, apply what they have learned in the classroom and gain hands-on experience.

After completing her first year at the University of Delaware, Scarlet Wohlman, a political science major and now a junior, knew she wanted to pursue that kind of opportunity. She applied for a summer internship with the Civics Department in the Institute of Public Administration (IPA). I asked her to reflect on what she has learned and accomplished during her time with IPA, as well as her future plans and advice for fellow Blue Hens.

What have you worked on during your internship? What does your role as an intern involve?

“Throughout the past two years, I have worked mainly on educational issues across the state of Delaware. This has included helping develop model lesson plans for teachers, supporting institutes such as the Democracy Project and collaborating with students through events such as the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

“Beyond the work I have done for my supervisors, Francis O’Malley and Scott Abbott, I have also had the opportunity to research educational issues that interest me. My research has focused on the student-level effects of state-level differences in legislation on the teaching of controversial topics in schools. The importance of civic education and discourse cannot be overlooked, especially at a time when hyperpartisan politics have deeply divided our country. In applying my research, I created an infographic with strategies for teachers, students and administrators to help address possible issues around controversial topics.

“I have also been fortunate to present this research to teachers across Delaware through multiple webinars I co-hosted with my supervisors. Without my internship, that would not have been possible. I am grateful for the support and guidance I have received from Dr. O’Malley and Mr. Abbott, and I am excited to continue developing research on these topics with them.”

What were some unique experiences you had while interning? Were there one or two moments that stood out to you?

“This internship has provided me with incredible opportunities to become more involved and meet inspiring people. One of the most unique experiences was when IPA held the Democracy Project, an institute that aims to narrow the gap between elected officials and educators. Our conversations focus on civic discourse and the importance of civic engagement for future generations.

“Another unique experience was the Mock 2nd Continental Congress, held in June 2025 at Legislative Hall in Dover, Delaware. For this event, IPA invited elementary and middle school students from across the state to participate in a mock congress in preparation for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. I proctored the event alongside Mike Feldman, an education associate with the Delaware Department of Education. We watched students communicate their opinions respectfully and work through the kinds of decisions that led to the Declaration of Independence in the 1700s. It was inspiring to see them engage with those issues with such decorum.”

Do you have any advice for current and future students looking for internships?

“My advice for students looking for internships is to step out of your comfort zone and be confident in yourself. At first, I was unsure whether an educational research position would be the right fit for me. I had never had an internship before, and I was nervous about starting my professional career in an area that felt unfamiliar. However, I have learned so much and have grown as a student and a person in ways I never could have imagined. By meeting teachers, public officials and others interested in these issues, I was exposed to and engaged with a range of viewpoints.

“Stepping outside my comfort zone and trusting my abilities as a student allowed me to grow in my role at IPA. If you had told me two years ago that I would have a full research paper and corresponding infographic and be helping lead webinars, I never would have believed you. Take that risk and be confident in yourself, because you never know where it could lead.”

Caroline Schenk is a PhD student in the Political Science and International Relations department - contact: caschenk@udel.edu

Scarlet Wohlman is an Honors Political Science major in the Political Science and International Relations department with minors in Public Policy and History  - contact: keating@udel.edu