Right after graduating from high school, I started working for Council Member Ora Houston, District One Office. I worked Monday-Friday from 9 am to 4 pm. I started each day by trying to figure out what business attire to wear and head my day by taking the bus to downtown.

Kaylee Fang

Throughout this entire internship, my social networking and communication skills have grown. I had an amazing opportunity to attend a press conference. It was incredible to be part of and see how moved the public was to hear the council speak and stand up for them on the CodeNext issue. It taught me how important it is to connect with the people and to build that trusting relationship with them. During the conference I meet great local leaders and notice how their presence is so important to the public. Also, having my picture next to the council members and the people on the newspaper was such an honor.

NOKA The Observer Kaylee Fang

I was assigned to write the newsletters for the month of June and keep the social media sites updated. I learned how to gather all the information about the local community events and keep the public updated with any new notices. I help out with projects like CodeNext and had the chance to sit in on meetings and learn about land usage. This project has taught me how business and politics correlate with each other. For example, these decisions enforced by the government affect how a business can function and regulate.

I learn that answering the phone is no easy task. I have dealt with people calling in to complain about their trash not being picked up to the press requesting information about the council member not running again for the election. Overall, it was pretty complicated to handle.

The busiest time in the office occurs during council meetings. I assisted Council Member Houston by organizing the agenda for the week. These issues ranged from Austin City Police to Office of Real Estate Services. Although it was a lot of work, I looked forwarded to the Thursdays when they gave us free lunch and the breaks we took as an office to have small talk.

I enjoy my time there and I am grateful for all the growth I have learned as a young leader. Overall, I give my thanks to District One Team and APAPA for giving me this kind of opportunity.