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By Bella Fowler, Edited by Lexi Tassone
Learn about Drishta Soni’s internship at the DEP, her time at Rutgers, and tips for work-life balance with this short Q&A!
Tell us a little bit about yourself at Rutgers. What clubs or organizations are you involved in?
At Rutgers, I study Environmental Policy and Political Science, with a strong interest in environmental advocacy and legal services. On campus, I am involved in the Students for Environmental Awareness organization, SEA, and currently lead the Sustainable Transportation Campaign (SEAt). SEA, NJDEP, and classes occupy most of my time, but I also enjoy walking around Cook/Douglass when I have some downtime.
How did you get your internship at the Department of Environmental Protection? What was that process like?
I got my internship with the DEP by researching the Office of Legislative Affairs and applying for the Legislative Specialist Intern position. The application process was straightforward, and required a resume and interview with the director of the office and the special advisor. We discussed my interests and experiences, and I was offered the position a couple days after the interview.
What is your primary responsibility at the DEP?
My primary role is to research NJ’s legislative updates, including new bill proposals, and even just ideas circulating in the legislature. Additionally, I draft bills and regulations on behalf of the department after researching statewide, interstate, federal, and international legislation. Occasionally, state and federal legislators will request comments from the DEP that I finalize drafts for.
What has been your favorite part about working at the DEP?
My favorite part has been the connections I have made. Many of my close friends are interns I am currently working with, and my previous and current supervisors have connected me with many opportunities.
Does working at the DEP differ from how you originally imagined it? What would you say is the most different about it compared to your expectations?
I would say that working at the DEP is much better than what I expected. I was worried I may not be able to keep up with the work I was assigned; however, I am at my most productive when I am at my cubicle. Additionally, I was worried about fitting in with the environment there but my colleagues and supervisors have made work somewhere I enjoy being.
How do you balance your internship and schoolwork? Do you have any advice for those in similar situations?
Time management. I have managed my family, my internship, schoolwork, extracurriculars, hobbies, relationships, and a social life by simply scheduling a time for all of those things in my day. Making a schedule and sticking to it has helped me a lot. You can even schedule when you have time for some fun!
Do you have anything else you would like to say about your job?
Take a chance and apply as soon as you can, Spring applications are open!