Climate Policy Fellow and Colin Powell School student Fiha Farin is spending her summer in Washington DC working as a Summer Intern for the Environmental Defense Fund, one of the world’s top environmental organizations recognized for leveraging their deep expertise in science and economics to deliver bold, game-changing solutions to address climate change. Below is a deep dive on her experience in DC so far, the highlights of her internship, and tips for fellow Powell School students considering a summer internship for next year.
This summer, I’m working as a Legislative Policy Intern with the Federal Affairs/Transforming Chemicals team at the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) in Washington, DC. My focus is on legislative research related to toxic chemicals, food chemicals, microplastics, recycling, and plastic pollution. A major part of my work involves tracking and analyzing bills on recycling and extended producer responsibility (EPR), advancing environmental advocacy and public health protection. These policies aim to reduce plastic waste and hold producers accountable for the full life cycle of their products. I attend congressional hearings, including those held by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, to stay informed on how these issues are being discussed and shaped on Capitol Hill.
Living here on Capitol Hill and being so close to the heart of policymaking has made this experience even more exciting and meaningful.
I found this opportunity through the Climate Policy Fellowship at the Colin Powell School for Civic and Global Leadership, where I major in Financial Economics and Psychology. The fellowship, led by Trevor Houser and Professor Deborah Cheng, offers students comprehensive climate policy training, workshops, mentorship, and financial support for internships.
Engaging with my cohort has been an incredible part of this experience. Through conversations with Climate Policy Fellows, I have learned a great deal about their diverse perspectives and ambitions, creating a strong community of peers passionate about climate action.
At EDF, I have been fortunate to benefit from a robust internship program that goes beyond day-to-day work. There are networking events, a mentorship program, and professional development sessions that have helped me grow both personally and professionally. These opportunities have made my experience even more rewarding. I am grateful to my supervisor, Caroline Murton, a Legislative Policy Analyst at EDF, from whom I have learned so much about legislative strategy and the importance of policy in environmental solutions.
I would also like to thank Professor Deborah Cheng, Trevor Houser and the Climate Policy Fellowship for their generous support, including covering my housing in DC, which made this internship possible. The guidance and encouragement from both EDF and the fellowship have been invaluable as I develop my skills and clarify my career goals.
This experience has deepened my interest in working at the intersection of environmental policy, ESG, and public health, with a particular focus on toxic chemical regulation. It’s also strengthened my passion for legislative policy analysis and shown me how meaningful research can directly inform decision-making. I hope to build a career that advances sustainable and equitable solutions and ensures accountability.
My advice to other students is to take every chance to explore new experiences and seek out prospects that challenge and expand your perspective. Whether through a fellowship, internship, or immersing yourself in unfamiliar environments will open doors you didn’t know existed. Connect with the Colin Powell School early and often. Through their fellowships, advising, and support, I’ve been able to access opportunities that have shaped my goals and expanded my perspective. Don’t wait to explore what’s out there. Reach out and take that first step.
