Internship Spotlight: Leila Simeon, Governor Phil Murphy’s Office
Posted in: Political Science and Law, Student News
In the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, students are encouraged to discover their passions and turn them into real-world impact. Through hands-on internships across diverse fields, our students gain practical experience, build career readiness, and explore paths that align with their interests. We’re proud to share their stories and the inspiring work they’re doing beyond campus.
Leila Simeon, a Political Science major, completed her Spring internship in Governor Phil Murphy’s Office of Legislative Affairs. After learning about the position in a class taught by Dr. Brigid Harrison, Simeon was eager to expand her understanding of state politics and explore the professional paths that the experience might open up.
Her responsibilities included taking notes at Senate and Assembly hearings and creating timelines on bills as they arrived onto the Governor’s desk. Drawing on her academic knowledge of political institutions, Simeon noted, “The state house was the best way to relate those teachings to my surroundings as well as understand the importance of the work of state senators, assembly persons, etc.”
During her internship, Simeon completed a policy capstone presentation focused on identifying issues in communities and proposing legislative solutions. Simeon chose to explore the topic of grade inflation in K-12 education.
Interning at the State House also enhanced her networking skills. Simeon learned the value of researching the background and work of colleagues and collaborators. “I believe that having a basic understanding of the people you are interacting with will ultimately help you establish a connection and network.”
Being a Legislative Intern helped Simeon refine her professional interests and develop a personal stake in her work. “Being able to witness the impact of my work brings me much more gratification than I originally anticipated.” Simeon plans to apply the lessons she’s learned while continuing to find her niche in the field.
Written by Vivvy Gundani