Position: Communications Director

Employer: U.S. Senator Gary Peters

Current City: Washington, DC

What does your job involve?

As Communications Director for Michigan’s U.S. Senator Gary Peters, I develop and execute a strategic communications plan to promote the Senator’s priorities and accomplishments and serve as a senior advisor for communications and policy matters. I act as the Senator’s official spokesperson, interacting daily with the media, pitching stories and responding to questions about his positions. My job also includes editing and drafting of various written materials, including speeches, press releases, op-eds and memos.

How did your political science degree influence your career path? 

I started out as a freshman at the University of Houston majoring in mathematics but was inspired make a complete change to political science by Dr. Christine LeVeaux and her interactive Honors Introduction to Political Science course. Additionally, the unique internship opportunities offered by the University of Houston opened a lot of doors for me professionally and gave me the kind of hands-on experience that helped prepare me for a career in politics. After being selected for the Mickey Leland Congressional Internship program in Washington, DC, I landed my first job in politics with then-Congressman Ken Bentsen.

Do you have any advice for students who aspire to hold a job like yours?

Get involved! Apply for an internship or volunteer for a local campaign, candidate or cause. Your political science courses and the dedicated faculty at UH will provide a great foundation of knowledge and critical thinking skills, but the real-world experience of an internship or volunteer opportunity can help you get a head start in politics upon graduation.