Below are the spotlight information of my 2024 interns, beginning with the spring term.
College/University:
Boise State University
Major:
Political Science with an emphasis in international relationships
Policy areas of interest:
Education, Environment andHuman Rights
Goals after graduation:
I want to earn my master’s degree in political science and maybe even a PHD. After I graduate I aspire to become a policy and affairs coordinator. However, I am open to all political career opportunities. I am super excited to see what opportunities arise!
Favorite part of Idaho and why:
My favorite part of Idaho is its outdoors! There is so much beauty in every corner. From the stunning snowy mountains to the admirable hot springs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. You can always count on Idaho to have fresh air and hundreds of outdoor activities to brighten your day.
What inspired you to apply for a Senate internship:
I have always been passionate and dedicated to the world of politics. I find great interest in helping others. When my professor recommended this internship, I was immediately interested! It is an amazing opportunity to be part of the Senator Crapo’s team.
Any further thoughts:
It has been an remarkable journey being part of the Crapo team. I have learned so much already and expect to gain more valuable knowledge. This is certainly going to be an unforgettable experience. The work environment is very peaceful and everyone is so nice and willing to help. It has been fascinating to learn more about senate operations and the federal legislative process.
Name:
Brooke Townsend
College/University:
Boise State University
Major:
Major in Communications, Minor in +Business, Certificate in Digital Media Literacy
Policy areas of interest:
Education, Children and Youth, and Families; I spent many hours in high school volunteering at preschools and childcare facilities, so the success of young humans is especially important to me.
Goals after graduation:
Since I am a sophomore in college, I plan to continue to expand my horizons and narrow my interests. My current interests include marketing, sales, and public relations. I plan to pursue a career in one of those fields, but that is absolutely subject to change as I experience more of this world!
Favorite part of Idaho and why:
I love the Boise River, Lucky Peak, and Quinn’s Pond. I have always been attracted to water, and there is a small surf spot at the Boise River Park where I have been able to catch surfers in action. It feels like a small version of the Capitola Jetty, in California, where I’ve spent many mornings surfing with my family.
What inspired you to apply for a Senate internship:
Ms. Marissa Morrison was welcomed into my Public Relations course at Boise State to speak on a panel and mentioned the Boise Office Internship opportunity. I immediately was excited about this opportunity because I envisioned a chance to learn an abundance of new skills, as I had not experienced anything of the sort yet!
Any further thoughts:
My experience thus far in the Boise Office has exceeded my expectations! The Boise area and Idaho are wonderful, as are the people. I am so grateful for the new skills and knowledge I am gaining, which is exactly why I was interested in this opportunity. I am overly appreciative of the people I have had the privilege of working with through Senator Crapo’s team.
Name:
Gabe Rodriguez
College/University:
Boise State University
Major:
Political Science
Policy areas of interest:
My primary areas of policy interest are public, energy, and foreign policy.
Goals after graduation:
I graduate in May 2024 and plan on attending law school shortly thereafter. I have already applied to several schools and am waiting to hear back soon!
Favorite part of Idaho and why:
The wide open spaces are the best part of Idaho. When I want to get away from the sounds of the city, I can easily drive out 15 minutes and surround myself with trees, creeks, and gorgeous mountains.
What inspired you to apply for a Senate internship:
I had the honor of interning for Senator Crapo last Summer in his Boise office. Everyone at that office was incredibly kind and welcoming. Ever since then, I knew that I wanted to get experience in Washington, D.C. at the center of our federal government.
Name:
Nate Evenson
College/University:
Boise State University
Major:
Political Science with an Economics Minor
Policy areas of interest:
Energy and Natural Resources
Goals after graduation:
Possibly graduate school, but want to continue working in public service.
Favorite part of Idaho and why:
McCall is one of my favorite parts of Idaho. Went there for a trip with some friends, so have some good memories attached to the town.
What inspired you to apply for a Senate internship:
After interning at the state level, I wanted to better understand the federal side of government.
Name:
Caroline Lucia
College/University:
Brigham Young University
Major:
Finance
Policy areas of interest:
Finance, Banking and Foreign Policy
Goals after graduation:
Having only completed a couple of semesters, I am still forming my long-term goals. That being said, I am greatly enjoying my time on the Crapo team, and I would love to continue to work in Washington, D.C., utilizing the skills that I am learning here.
Favorite part of Idaho and why:
I love visiting my extended family in Preston!
What inspired you to apply for a Senate internship:
My dad was born and raised in Idaho. He had a great experience as an intern for Senator Crapo during his undergraduate years here in D.C., and I chose to follow in his footsteps!
Any further thoughts:
I have loved learning more about the legislative process and the efforts that go into informing each of the Senator’s decisions. Additionally, I have enjoyed giving tours of the Capitol building to constituents.
Name:
Carter Jasper
College/University:
University of Montana
Major:
Political Science
Policy areas of interest:
Foreign Policy, Agriculture, Finance, Judiciary
Goals after graduation:
My goal after graduation is to attend law school. After that, I intend to move back to my small town of 400 people and open up a small law practice for my town and surrounding areas
Favorite part of Idaho and why:
My favorite part of Idaho is spending time on the St. Joe River and riding around on an ATV in the Panhandle National Forests. I think that there is nothing better than spending time outdoors
What inspired you to apply for a Senate internship:
I applied for this internship because I believe that it is important to see close up how our government operates. I grew up in a small town of 400 people, and sometimes it felt like the federal government is very distant. I wanted to learn new way to engage with the federal government so that when I go home I can still be civically engaged.
Name:
Helen Goodyear
College/University:
University of Virginia
Major:
Public Policy and Leadership
Policy areas of interest:
Education, Environment, and Foreign Affairs
Goals after graduation:
I graduate from the University of Virginia in May 2026. After graduation, I am considering attending graduate school, possibly law school. Until then, I hope to continue working in the public sector or adjacent organizations.
Favorite part of Idaho and why:
My hometown, Sun Valley, is my favorite part of Idaho. I love skiing on Bald Mountain, hiking to Pioneer Cabin, and spending the weekend at Redfish Lake. I feel incredibly lucky to call Sun Valley home!
What inspired you to apply for a Senate internship:
As a Public Policy and Leadership major, I felt working for Senator Crapo would provide me with a unique opportunity to translate my academic knowledge into practical experience. As an Idahoan, I was drawn to Senator Crapo’s values at the local and national level. It has been an amazing experience contributing to Senator Crapo’s team.
Any further thoughts:
I have thoroughly enjoyed Senator Crapo’s internship program in Washington D.C. thus far, specifically giving tours of the Capitol to fellow Idahoans and attending hearings and briefings on topics that align with my policy interests. Additionally, I was thrilled to receive a special tour of the Captiol Dome on my first day!
Name:
Christian Horchler
College/University:
Brigham Young University - Idaho
Major:
Political Science, Emphasis on Foreign Affairs
Policy areas of interest:
Immigration, Finance, Health Care and Budget
Goals after graduation:
Return to Capitol Hill, working full time in a DC House or Senate
office.
Favorite part of Idaho and why:
The natural beauty of the state. The most beautiful golf courses I have ever
played at provided stunning and breathtaking views of Idaho’s natural
beauty.
What inspired you to apply for a Senate internship:
Since middle school, I’ve always been fascinated in legislative and
theoretical politics, which led me to choosing political science as a major at
BYUI. This subsequently kindled the
desire to make my way to the Hill as an intern,
to experience the heart of the political world firsthand. Not only would I gain valuable insights and
hands on experience in the realm which has fascinated me for so long, I also
saw it as my opportunity to lay the groundwork for a future Capitol Hill
career.
Any further thoughts:
Being in Senator Crapo’s office has offered me hands on experience and training which will prove fruitful for an eventual career on the Hill. Furthermore, I have met many wonderful people who have offered advice and connections that can help make my dream of working on the Hill become a reality.
Name:
Brandon Yapias
College/University:
Brigham Young University - Idaho
Major:
Business Finance with a Minor in Business Analytics
Policy areas of interest:
Taxes, Social Security, Banking and Financial Services
Goals after graduation:
As I approach the end of my academic journey, my primary goal is to begin a career in either the government or private sector, specifically within their finance departments. I am particularly interested in opportunities within the tech or aerospace industries.
Favorite part of Idaho and why:
My favorite part of Idaho is its stunning outdoor scenery and the diverse range of activities it offers. I particularly enjoyed kayaking on the Snake River near Island Park and horseback riding through the picturesque landscapes of Harriman State Park. Hiking and swimming at Packsaddle Lake were also a memorable experience. The trails at Mesa Falls, with their breathtaking waterfalls and dramatic cliffs, were unforgettable. To cap off a day of outdoor adventures, school, or just for fun, nothing beats a visit to Big Jud’s for their delicious hickory bacon burger with a side of onion rings and a shake!
What inspired you to apply for a Senate internship:
While at work one day, I came across an advertisement for internships in Washington, D.C., and it immediately felt like the right opportunity for me. As I researched further, I learned about Senator Mike Crapo. When I discussed this with my professors and work managers, they all spoke highly of him and endorsed the idea. Their positive feedback convinced me that this internship was the perfect fit.
Name:
Bradley Stanton
College/University:
Brigham Young University - Idaho
Major:
Public Policy and Administration
Policy areas of interest:
Nuclear Energy, National Security, Public Lands, Prison Reform and NASA
Goals after graduation:
Secure a pathways program with a federal agency or a Capitol Hill committee.
Favorite part of Idaho and why:
The nature in Idaho is truly noteworthy, but it’s the people that really make Idaho special.
What inspired you to apply for a Senate internship:
My time at BYU-I gave me the opportunity, abilities and confidence necessary to lead me to D.C. In my time looking for an internship, Senator Crapo’s office stood out as a powerful platform to gain insights and experience.