Nailah Chambers
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What are you doing now?
I am a graduate student at the American University School of Public Affairs pursuing a master’s in public administration with a concentration in Public Financial Management. Also, I work in the U.S. Senate.
How did you hear about the At-Large Fellows program and what inspired you to apply?
The Political Science department chair at Spelman College shared information about the At-Large Fellows program in the summer before my senior year of college. In the spring semester, I mentioned to one of my professors I was interested in participating in an external program to gain additional experience and knowledge on politics and government. Prior to the fellowship, I had a remote Capitol Hill internship. I learned about the constituent services aspect of congressional work and monitored some legislation. I enjoyed having the opportunity to glance into a congressional office's workings and desired to know more about the legislative branch and its interactions with the other two branches of government. Therefore, when the opportunity presented itself, I was eager to apply.
What is your favorite memory from the Fellowship?
My favorite memory of the fellowship was the overall conference in Washington, D.C. I enjoyed visiting and visiting the U.S. House of Representatives and meeting with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. During the conference, I was able to network with fellows, both present and past, and learn from their experiences with the fellowship and how they were able to use it to navigate the careers they have now. The conference also provided a space where I could have productive conversations with fellows and policy experts with various opinions and beliefs.
How has the Fellowship supported your academic or career goals?
The relationships that I built while participating in the fellowship have allowed me. The fellowship challenged and enhanced my knowledge about not only the complexities of the presidency and Congress but also of supporting executive agencies, private corporations, and nonprofits. By expanding my knowledge, I was intrigued by the managerial aspect of government which inspired me to pursue an advanced degree in public administration with a concentration in public finance in Washington, D.C. Even though I completed the fellowship in 2023, the fellowship continues to share events and briefings that we can attend. In my professional journey, I have remained connected with other fellows, some of whom I now work within the U.S. Senate.
If you could have any job, what would it be?
If I could have any job, I would be the Governor of Maryland. As a native Marylander, I have deep love and appreciation for the state and love to the continuous growth and development. Maryland is such a diverse state with a diverse population and a dynamic economy. I'm proud of my home state and would love to contribute to ensuring the success and competitiveness of Maryland.