Two Keuka College juniors are heading to Washington, D.C., this summer after successfully reviving a long-dormant internship partnership.
Their achievement is especially notable because the program, previously available to Keuka College students through a partnership with SUNY Brockport, had gone inactive following faculty changes and the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“These two students really drove the whole process,” said Professor of History Dr. Christopher Leahy, who now coordinates the program. “They didn’t know about the SUNY Brockport program, but they inquired into doing a Washington internship and that prompted the whole thing.”
After reconnecting with program leadership, Frech and Harding navigated a rigorous application process, competing against students from across the state for just 15 openings. Now accepted, they are applying to specific offices and agencies where they hope to intern.
Harding, a Criminology and Criminal Justice major with a minor in Foreign Affairs, is aiming for a placement in the office of U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney, while Frech, a Political Science and History major, hopes to work for Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Their differing political interests reflect the program’s broad scope.
“They come from different political perspectives, which I think is interesting,” said Dr. Leahy. “I think it’s something that we should try to cultivate.”
If their first choices don’t pan out, both have backup plans. Harding is considering roles with the U.S. Marshals Service or conservative think tanks, while Frech is interested in special education policy, particularly issues affecting students with dyslexia—a cause close to him personally.
Regardless of where they end up, their professors have no doubt they will excel.
“They’re both conscientious, hard-working students,” said Associate Professor of Political Science Dr. David Pak Leon.
Dr. Leahy agreed. “Both of these guys are going to represent Keuka College in a positive way.”
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