INTERNSHIP

Murray County Commissioner's Office Administrative Intern

A Look into my Internship

Week 1: Behind the Scenes with County Leadership

I shadowed the County Clerk and Employee Benefits Coordinator, learning about financial operations, payroll systems, and the logistics of courthouse proceedings — including evidence handling and jury management.

Week 2: Jury Selection & Trial Procedures

I observed the jury selection process and trial protocols, gaining a deeper understanding of courtroom dynamics, legal standards, and the importance of impartiality in justice.

Week 3: Elections & Land Use

I assisted with a special election and worked with the Land Use and Building Inspection Office, helping track permits and zoning classifications.

Week 4: Finance & Policy

I rotated through the Tax Commissioner’s Office, Probate Court, and Accounts Payable, and attended the ACCG Regional Legislative Roundtable in Gilmer County — where I learned about pressing issues like school safety, housing, and transportation.

Week 5: Commission Meetings & Community Issues

I attended a Commissioner's Meeting and explored topics like waste management, animal control, and infrastructure updates. I also helped prepare documentation for the ARC grant proposal.

Week 6: Grant Writing & Court Operations

I helped draft letters of support for the ARC grant and assisted with Probate Court operations, including organizing case files and supporting courtroom logistics.

Week 7: Land Use Reports & Community Engagement

I created detailed reports for the Land Use Department, tracked payments, and was honored to be voted onto the Miracle League of Murray County board.

Week 8: IT, Finance & Miracle League

I spent time with IT teams at the jail and 911 center, balanced receipts for audits, and continued work on branding and logistics for the Miracle League.

Highlights and Take-Aways

County Clerk & Courthouse Operations
- I began by shadowing the County Clerk and observing courtroom procedures, including evidence handling, jury selection, and trial logistics. I learned how financial records are managed, how bond hearings are conducted, and how law enforcement coordinates with the courts.
Personnel & Policy
- I contributed to personnel policy revisions, helping update documents that affect county employees’ benefits, payroll, and workplace standards. This gave me insight into HR operations and the importance of clear, fair policies.
Elections & Civic Duty
- During a special election, I assisted with logistics, certification, and documentation. I helped prepare materials for the Secretary of State’s office and observed how election integrity is maintained at the local level.
Land Use & Code Enforcement
- I worked with the Land Use and Building Inspection Office to match permits with payments, balance receipts, and ensure zoning compliance. I also attended rezoning hearings and created detailed reports for audits.
Finance & Public Works
- I rotated through the Tax Commissioner’s Office, Accounts Payable, and Public Works, helping track SPLOST-eligible expenses, organize receipts, and prepare financial documentation for audits.
Probate Court & Legal Administration
- I supported court operations by organizing case files, checking in defendants, and assisting with courtroom logistics. I learned about plea negotiations, probation revocations, and the importance of restorative justice.
Community Engagement
- One of my proudest contributions was developing and presenting a Community Forum Proposal. This presentation outlined strategies for improving civic engagement, increasing transparency, and fostering collaboration between citizens and local government. I proposed:
  - - Hosting quarterly town halls
    - Creating a digital feedback portal
    - Launching youth civic education programs
    - Partnering with local nonprofits for outreach
- This proposal was well-received and is now being considered for future implementation.

Bridging Practice and Policy

As a Master of Public Administration student at the University of Georgia, I’m committed to understanding how policy, governance, and leadership shape communities.

My Summer 2025 internship with Murray County Government was a powerful extension of my academic journey ad combining classroom theory and real-world impact. The experience gave me a front-row seat to the daily operations of local government and the many ways public service impacts community life.

This internship taught me that local government is both complex and deeply personal. Every decision — from zoning permits to grant proposals — directly affects the lives of citizens. I saw firsthand the importance of:

Accountability: Ensuring financial and legal processes are transparent.
Collaboration: Departments working together to solve problems and serve residents.
Community Engagement: Listening to citizens and incorporating their voices into policy.

I am grateful to Tina Davis, County Clerk, and the entire Murray County Government team for welcoming me into their offices and guiding me through this journey. This internship was more than just professional experience — it was an opportunity to understand the heart of public service and the power of community leadership.

ENGAGING MURRAY PRESENTATION

Engaging Murray

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