Gabriel Adams-Keane
The Office of State Sen. Cindy Friedman
Hometown: Arlington, Massachusetts
Degree and graduation year: MPPA, 2020
Where I interned: The Office of State Senator Cindy Friedman, through the Civic Action Project, a fellowship program that provides internship experience, training, and mentoring for emerging public service leaders.
What I did there: As a policy fellow, I worked on a variety of policy research and legislative drafting projects, with a focus on healthcare prescription drug pricing. Outside of policy, I also helped staff on constituent outreach and a number of communication projects. The most rewarding activity, though, was actually getting to staff the Senator in stakeholder and legislative meetings.
The most important thing I learned: How important it is to collaborate with different offices, agencies and organizations. There were plenty of bills that involved deep communication with other legislators, governmental agencies, and outside nonprofit and advocacy groups. It was crucial to work closely with all these different groups, especially when thinking about bill hearings and letters of testimony.
The most challenging part of my internship: Dealing with different constituent cases. Our office got many calls from all over the district, and many visitors in person. Learning how to listen and respond to their issues and concerns took time, but eventually I became adept at finding the appropriate solution or governmental agency.
What surprised me the most: How many people in the State House know each other. Relationships are key, and many offices were extremely close-knit to one another.
Why I’m studying public policy: Because I believe the best way to make tangible improvements in our communities is through effective public policy. I want to understand what that is and how to make it happen.
Future plans: I would love to return to working in legislative affairs at some point. I also have a variety of experience in political operations and campaigns and am interested in working with a progressive campaign consulting firm.