Emily Kopp (CFP 2007-2008) is an editor of NPR’s All Things Considered. Previously, she served as a reporter and anchor at Federal News Radio in D.C. and a senior reporter at Georgia Public Broadcasting. Ms. Kopp spent her fellowship year in the office of Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI).
Why did you apply to the Congressional Fellowship Program?
I applied because I had covered state politics for many years and wanted to expand my horizons--to see the same thing happen on a national scale.
What issues did you cover and what types of work did you do for your host office during your fellowship year?
I specialized in international trade. I did research, or connected with CRS and GAO about research. I also met with constituents who visited Washington.
What were some of the highlights of the fellowship year?
Highlights were definitely meeting and becoming friends with the other fellows. That was truly a privilege. I also enjoyed Marines Day and the Ottawa trip in particular but, again, it was the other fellows who made those experiences so special.
What impact has the CFP experience had on your subsequent career?
I don't think I would have gotten the job at Federal News Radio without this fellowship first. It gave the hiring manager confidence that I understood how Congress works. While I've moved on from that position, I think the fellowship has been helpful more broadly in exposing me to the way Capitol Hill operates, how lawmakers spend their time, and the various resources in Washington that provide insight about political and government topics.