The Impact of College Internships on Public Policy

Deborah Kyerematen’s Journey: A Case Study in Health Policy and Representation

On August 1, 2024, Deborah Kyerematen, a student at the University of Connecticut (2024 USNews Ranking: 58) , embarked on a transformative internship on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., serving as an intern for Congresswoman Jahana Hayes of Connecticut. Kyerematen, who is majoring in Health Sciences, was inspired by her coursework to delve into the realm of policy-making. Her experience in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, particularly in health and food policy courses, ignited her interest in the far-reaching impacts of health policy. She recognized that health policy not only affects individuals but can also have significant implications for entire states and the nation as a whole.

As an intern for Congresswoman Hayes, Kyerematen took on a variety of responsibilities, including responding to constituents’ inquiries and relaying their concerns to Hayes. She also assisted in researching potential new legislation that Hayes might sponsor and attended committee meetings. Kyerematen expressed that this experience deepened her understanding of how government operates. Hayes encouraged her interns to complete a capstone project by the end of the summer, and Kyerematen’s project involved writing a newsletter for constituents and healthcare advocacy groups about Hayes’ work on reproductive rights, aligning with her focus on maternal and infant health and the disparities faced by Black mothers.

Kyerematen’s passion for food policy is also noteworthy, as she believes that agricultural and educational policies are closely intertwined with health outcomes. She is currently enrolled in a fast-track program, planning to obtain a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Connecticut’s School of Public Health after completing her undergraduate studies. Her aspirations include continuing her work in health policy on Capitol Hill. Kyerematen’s internship was organized through the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, which hosted a total of 67 interns that summer. She found it particularly rewarding to witness individuals from diverse backgrounds engaging and networking on Capitol Hill, emphasizing the significance of her experience.

The Impact of Kyerematen’s Internship on Her Career Aspirations

Deborah Kyerematen’s internship experience is a prime example of how hands-on involvement in government can shape a student’s career aspirations, particularly in the field of health policy. Internships provide students with invaluable opportunities to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, allowing them to gain insights into the complexities of policy-making. For Kyerematen, her internship not only solidified her interest in health policy but also provided her with a platform to advocate for issues that resonate with her personal and academic interests.

The importance of health policy in addressing disparities in maternal and infant health cannot be overstated. Kyerematen’s focus on reproductive rights and maternal health aligns with a growing recognition of the systemic issues that disproportionately affect Black mothers. The statistics are alarming: in Delaware, for instance, Black mothers face a maternal mortality rate that is significantly higher than that of their white counterparts. This disparity is a reflection of broader systemic racism and inequities in healthcare access and quality. Kyerematen’s work in this area is not just academic; it is a response to a pressing public health crisis that demands attention and action.

Addressing Disparities in Maternal and Infant Health

The disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes, particularly for Black mothers, are a critical issue that requires urgent attention from policymakers. As highlighted in a recent conference held by the Delaware Healthy Mothers and Babies Coalition, systemic racism, implicit bias, and socioeconomic factors contribute to these disparities. Despite improvements in healthcare access, the outcomes for different racial and ethnic groups remain starkly unequal. For example, while Delaware has seen a decrease in overall infant mortality rates, the rates for non-Hispanic Black infants remain disproportionately high.

Kyerematen’s focus on these issues is timely and relevant. The ongoing discussions around maternal health highlight the need for comprehensive policy solutions that address the root causes of these disparities. Legislative efforts, such as the recent resolution in Delaware declaring a week of awareness for Black maternal and infant health, are steps in the right direction. However, sustained advocacy and policy changes are necessary to create lasting improvements in health outcomes for marginalized communities.

Moreover, the intersection of health policy with agricultural and educational policies is crucial in understanding the broader context of health disparities. Kyerematen’s recognition of the links between these areas underscores the need for a holistic approach to health policy. Food security, access to quality education, and healthcare are interconnected issues that require coordinated efforts from policymakers at all levels.

The Significance of Agricultural and Educational Policies

The significance of agricultural and educational policies in relation to health outcomes is increasingly being recognized in the discourse surrounding public health. As Kyerematen noted, food policy plays a vital role in shaping health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the importance of food security and nutrition, especially for low-income families and children.

Vice President Kamala Harris’s potential presidential candidacy has sparked discussions among food advocates about the implications of her policies on the U.S. food system. Harris has been a vocal advocate for improving food security and nutrition, particularly for marginalized communities. Her legislative efforts, such as the “Closing the Meal Gap Act” and the “FEMA Empowering Essential Delivery Act,” demonstrate a commitment to addressing food insecurity and ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to nutritious food.

Harris’s focus on sustainable agriculture and climate change also aligns with the growing recognition of the need for environmentally responsible food policies. As the agricultural sector faces challenges related to climate change, policymakers must prioritize sustainable practices that promote food security while protecting natural resources. Kyerematen’s interest in these issues positions her well to contribute to the ongoing conversations about the future of food policy in the United States.

The Importance of Diversity and Representation in Government Internships

Kyerematen’s experience as an intern on Capitol Hill also highlights the importance of diversity and representation in government internships. The presence of individuals from diverse backgrounds in policy-making spaces enriches the decision-making process and ensures that a wider range of perspectives is considered. This is particularly important in the context of health policy, where the needs and experiences of marginalized communities must be represented.

The recent election of women leaders in various political contexts, such as the potential election of Mexico’s first female president, underscores the significance of representation in politics. While the election of women to leadership positions is a positive step, it is essential that these leaders prioritize gender equity and inclusivity in their policy agendas. The same principle applies to the representation of diverse voices in U.S. government internships and legislative processes.

Kyerematen’s internship experience exemplifies how diverse representation can influence policy-making. By engaging with constituents from various backgrounds, she is better equipped to understand the unique challenges faced by different communities. This understanding is crucial for developing policies that address the needs of all citizens, particularly those who have historically been marginalized.

Conclusion

Deborah Kyerematen’s internship with Congresswoman Jahana Hayes serves as a compelling case study in the intersection of health policy, representation, and the importance of diversity in government. Her journey reflects the potential for internships to shape the aspirations of young leaders and advocates in the field of health policy. As Kyerematen continues her studies and prepares for a career in public health, her experiences on Capitol Hill will undoubtedly inform her approach to addressing the pressing issues of maternal and infant health disparities, food policy, and the need for inclusive representation in policy-making.

The challenges faced by Black mothers and other marginalized communities in accessing quality healthcare and nutritious food are urgent and require concerted efforts from policymakers. Kyerematen’s commitment to these issues, coupled with her academic background and internship experience, positions her as a promising advocate for change. As the U.S. continues to grapple with systemic inequities in health and food policy, the voices of individuals like Kyerematen will be essential in driving meaningful progress.

In summary, Kyerematen’s journey underscores the critical role of internships in shaping the next generation of leaders in health policy. By prioritizing diversity and representation in government, we can ensure that the policies developed reflect the needs and experiences of all citizens, ultimately leading to a more equitable and just society.

News References:

  1. Translating Knowledge into Policy as an Intern on the Hill
  2. Delaware’s Black Maternal Health Disparities
  3. The Potential Impact of a Kamala Harris Presidency on the Food System
  4. Mexico’s First Female President and US-Mexico Relations
Scroll to top
Rankings

College Rankings

Select colleges to compare