Senior political science major Andrew Fink has always wanted to work on a presidential campaign. This dream came true in August, when he secured an internship with the Marco Rubio presidential campaign as the Lowcountry Field Representative and Digital Coordinator for Outreach. Fink learned about the position while he was interning at the Heritage Foundation, a political think tank in Washington, D.C, the previous summer.
As the Lowcountry Field Representative, Fink frequently represents Rubio at events, and makes important connections with supporters, influential community members, and the Charleston GOP. He was also instrumental in arranging Rubio’s successful visit to campus on December 1st. To increase attendance, Fink called constituents and also promoted the event on the campaign’s Twitter and Facebook accounts. His long hours and hard work paid off; the on-campus event was a resounding success and in mid-December he was promoted to a full-time, paid managerial position with the campaign.
According to Fink, the internship and new position have “enhanced my communication skills as well as my ability to build relationships and motivate others.” As a manager, he currently supervises volunteers and interns. Fink also drew upon his political science classes. He noted that Dr. Knotts’ southern politics class as well as Dr. Ragusa’s research methods and congress classes helped prepare him for this experience. The internship has also expanded his interests in national security, education policy, and mental health issues.
Fink credits his family with instilling in him the importance of gaining work experience during college. He also is very grateful to Dr. Ragusa for helping him to secure his internship at the Heritage Foundation. Fink encourages other students to develop good relationships with their professors. “They provide great advice and can serve as a recommendation,” he said. In addition he recommends that students “reach out to people, don’t be shy, advocate for yourself, and be willing to do any task.”
“Andrew is an exceptional student: he’s hard working, bright, and has a deep interest in campaigns and elections,” noted Dr. Ragusa. “I have no doubt that he will have a very successful career working in American politics.”