Interview with Brooke Sherman
- Tell us about yourself.
- During my childhood I lived in Ann Arbor, Chicago, and Boston. Because I have moved around a lot, I love exploring new places and meeting new people. I graduated high school one year early, sparking my interest in taking a gap year. I also wanted to take the time to have an adventurous and unique year before hopping back into the classroom.
- Hometown
- Ann Arbor, MI
- High School
- The Newman School
- What is your passion?
- My passion is the relationship between economics and political science. I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to take economics in high school; I fell in love immediately. I was also incredibly politically engaged, so I found a way to meld my two passions. I am fascinated by the effect of government actions on a society, and in turn how that changes the economic climate (ex: consumer habits).
- Why did you choose to attend the AU Gap program?
- When I decided to take a gap year I wanted to ensure my time was spent productively, and I could both experience a new setting and maintain an element of academic rigor. I looked for programs in Washington, D.C. because I could pursue my interest in politics/economics and experience the city during an unprecedented election year. When I discovered the AU Gap program, I thought, "it's almost as if this was tailor-made for me." An added bonus is we were given the opportunity to stay with other American University students in the dorms, so I got a little taste of college life while attending an amazing program.
- Where was your Gap Internship?
- I interned for Senator Richard Blumenthal. My favorite part was how involved I was in the office and the U.S. Senate. Our intern coordinator encouraged us to take advantage of our time as interns; I attended hearings and briefings as often as I could, had coffee with nearly all of the legislative and press staff, and found many incredible Congressional events. Although I only had four months on the Hill, by the end of the internship I truly felt like a meaningful piece of the office.
- Where are you going after Gap?
- I now have an internship back home in Boston. Still waiting for several of my college letters, so not completely decided yet!
- Favorite experience while in the AU Gap Program?
- As Gap Program students, we went on several "field trips" many people do not have the opportunity to experience. I believe my favorite was the day we visited the Pentagon. The U.S. Department of Defense is a significant aspect of our government, and our country. It was fascinating to walk the halls with the men and women who protect the homeland, and learn about its rich history.
- Describe your AU Gap experience in one word or phrase.
- An experience that stays with you for the rest of your life.