Daniella Paradise

Hometown: Princeton, NJ

Current City: Washington, DC

Why did you choose McCourt? I chose McCourt because of a combination of factors: a city with some of the best opportunities to work in policy in the country, a diverse array of opportunities inside McCourt to get hands-on experience, and the welcoming community, which I learned about from talking with a Student Ambassador!

What professional/ work experience did you have prior to coming to McCourt? My background is in community organizing. I wanted to explore working in politics and got involved in a legislative campaign. It was a blast and a learning experience I’ll always be grateful for, and it led me to the goal of immersing myself in the research and formation side of policy.

What has been the best part of your experience so far? My classes and my classmates! I am blown away by how much my professors have taught us in a short span of time, it feels very empowering to already feel closer to my learning goals. The material is engaging, inspiring, and challenging in the best way. And it is a wonderful feeling to make friends with and work alongside classmates who work hard and play hard.

What internships have you had so far during your time at McCourt? 1) Research Associate with the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce; 2) Raise the Bar Intern with the Office of Postsecondary Education at the U.S. Education Department

Student organization involvement while at McCourt: Georgetown Public Policy Review (GPPR)

Undergraduate University, degree, and major: Smith College, BA, History and American Studies Double Major

Hobbies/ Interests: Further interests: Research, advocacy, analysis. Hobbies: reading, making music, and playing board games!

Reach out to me about: Family and life balance, LGBTQ community, moving to DC