By Cora Aitkenhead – News Editor

Senior Kayla Markowitz has used the Senior Internship opportunity to fuel her passion for politics as she interns at the Mayor’s Office. News Editor and Staff Reporter Cora Aitkenhead interviewed Markowitz about her experience at the internship and how it has prepared her for her future in studying Political Science. 

Cora Aitkenhead: How do you feel the work at this internship is properly preparing you for what you want to do in the future?

Kayla Markowitz: Interning for the Mayor has been an invaluable experience in shaping my understanding of local government and public service. I have learned an incredible amount about the role of our mayor and what he does every day to better the Milford Community. Beyond getting to know more about day-to-day responsibilities of the Mayor’s Office, this internship has also allowed me to develop my communication skills in more professional settings. Above all that, it has deepened my excitement to study political science because I have seen first hand how different departments and organizations collaborate on policies that have a direct impact on the community. 

CA: What is the most interesting thing you have learned (about politics or in general) through this internship?

KM: One thing I have learned more about is the energetic nature of the mayor’s role. The position is so demanding, and beyond needing someone who is 100% dedicated, it requires you to make quick decisions, adapt to setbacks, and navigate a variety of very complex issues, all while trying to keep everyone happy – which is just as difficult as it sounds. Every day, Mayor Smith has to make countless decisions to support the citizens of Milford, and along with that, it is his responsibility to seek out opportunities and innovations to improve the community. I have realized that local government is much more than big-picture ideas, and it requires you to think about all the immediate needs of the people.  

CA: How has working with Mayor Smith given you an authentic experience of working in politics?

KM: Working with Mayor Smith has been great because I definitely get to see the ups and downs of being in local government. He treats every meeting with the same respect and commitment, whether it’s a heavy conversation about homelessness or a more exciting conversation about improving the Connecticut post mall. I have learned that the most important conversations are often the ones nobody wants to have, and while some meetings can get pretty intense, it has been inspiring to watch Mayor Smith treat every issue with the same amount of consideration and attention. 

CA: What is something you look forward to doing/learning/experiencing as your internship wraps up?

KM: First off, I am excited to have a week off before graduation after a very busy senior year (a very busy four years if we’re being honest). Above that, I am excited to go into summer with a deeper understanding of the role of local government in the community and the direct impact it has on citizens within the community. I am looking forward to taking a step back and being able to reflect on everything I have learned, while preparing myself to use that knowledge for my journey at Tufts. I know that whether or not I continue my interest in political science, I have a wonderful experience that has truly made me appreciate how policy that appears small-scale has a large impact on people’s daily lives. 

CA: What is one piece of information or advice you’d give to students interested in politics wanting to partake in this internship?

KM: For younger students who are interested in politics, or overall interested in being more involved in their community, the biggest thing I can say is when you don’t see an opportunity right in front of you, create one! It can be super intimidating to try to get involved, but I have realized that oftentimes, the bigger the challenge the bigger the reward! Seek out every opportunity, and apply to anything even if you tell yourself “there’s no chance” because trust me, there is always a chance. Milford has so many different ways for students who are interested in politics. Reach out to local candidates to see if they need help with their campaign, or apply to the Mayor’s Youth Council, which is open to all Milford middle and high school students.