William Smith's Sarah Tanzer '13 is spending her summer in Washington, D.C., as an intern for the Republican National Committee (RNC). On campus, she is a coxswain for the Hobart rowing team.

After visiting the RNC while attending the Day on the Hill program, the political science and English dual major was immediately attracted to the excitement and commotion in the office.

"Everyone looked like they were happy doing what they were doing. I was ready to jump in and help," says Tanzer.

As an intern, Tanzer works for the RNC's department of Constituent Services, where she is responsible for communicating with constituents who contact the office because of concerns, or to voice their opinions. She then shares those concerns with the appropriate legislator.

"My experience has been rewarding because I'm able to educate the constituents who are unclear about how the party system works in America. It's exciting to be surrounded by people who share my passion for politics," says Tanzer.

Tanzer has also participated in briefing with other interns to get a broader understanding of what the RNC does as a whole. This includes meeting with representatives and senators from the RNC, and also attending receptions, press conferences, and continuing education programs. She's also had the opportunity to speak with Hill staff about future aspirations, helping her gain a better insight into potential career goals.

"This internship directly relates to my future career goals because of my interest in the political sphere," says Tanzer.

On the water, Tanzer competed in Hobart's second varsity eight and varsity four this season. She helped the 2V8 to victory at the Liberty League Championships and earned a silver medal in the V4 at the Knecht Cup. As a first-year, she coxswained the novice eight to gold medals at the New York State and the Liberty League championships.