Aidan Braun '21

1) What are some skills/competencies (NACE) that you developed during your internship?

One of my goals was to improve my technical writing ability; in synthesizing case studies and blogs from large amounts of research and data, I was able to address this goal. I also wanted to become more familiar with the details of important policy matters that are not touched on during classes. Delving deeper into healthcare, conservation and public transit increased my understanding on a range of issues. More generally, I wanted to learn how a think tank operates. Frontier Group is unique in that it is part of a much larger organization called The Public Interest Network. In understanding how Frontier Group operates, I gained a greater appreciation for how it contributes to the missions of other organizations.

2) How does this experience connect to your future career goals?

I don’t have a clear career trajectory yet, but I would like to be involved in the world of politics in some capacity. Working with Frontier Group introduced me to the public advocacy side of politics and I really enjoyed the work that I did with the group.

3) What advice would you give to other Holy Cross students?

At the risk of being cliché, don’t be afraid to try new things. My internship this summer was wildly different from my past internships, but they have all allowed me to form a better understanding of what I would like to do post-grad. Also, always be curious and put in the work.