During my internship with an overseas political engagement organization in Bologna, Italy, I worked across political research, voter assistance, communications, and volunteer training at both the local chapter and national levels. Much of my work focused on connecting Americans living abroad with the voting process. I conducted research on key Senate and state races to support targeted outreach, contributed to a voter guide for incoming study abroad students, and, after completing formal voter assistance training, organized an in-person event to help peers request their absentee ballots and navigate voting from abroad. Beyond voter services, I assisted with event preparation and outreach materials for the organization’s national Annual General Meeting and participated in regional community actions. Recognizing an opportunity to strengthen our internal capacity, I also co-developed and led a digital design workshop that equipped local volunteers to create their own infographics and outreach materials.
I arrived in Bologna feeling politically exhausted, disillusioned, and tempted to disengage from the frustration of caring about issues that felt too large to solve. Working alongside dedicated grassroots organizers completely shifted that perspective. I saw people bring their personalities, convictions, and genuine care for their communities into their advocacy, showing me that political leadership can be personal, authentic, and grounded in people rather than performative politics. Being part of a community working toward shared goals proved that collective action can overcome apathy and restore purpose.
Yara Choeb