GSA Blog

Celebrating the future of public service

As the summer sun shines brightly, so does the potential of the next generation of public servants. This year, GSA welcomed new talent with diverse backgrounds through the Pathways internship program, deepening GSA’s commitment to being one of the best places to work in government.

The Pathways program provides students and recent graduates with more than just a temporary position; it’s a gateway to understanding the vital role of public service in our society. Many of GSA’s past interns have transitioned into full-time roles, bringing continuity and long-term value to our teams. 

“We are excited to see what the future holds for our interns, which I hope includes their return to GSA,” said GSA Deputy Administrator Katy Kale. “Between the mentors and teams who guided and supported them, as well as their own talent, it’s great to see the next generation called to careers in public service.”

Through the stories of four GSA interns, we gain a glimpse into the diverse experiences, challenges, and aspirations that shaped their journeys at GSA.

Elly Mejia Castro, Office of the General Counsel

Elly Mejia Castro, a law student from George Washington University (Washington, D.C.), shared that her love for public service originates from growing up as a first-generation American whose parents were from a country that didn’t have many opportunities. “I frequently visited their birthplace as a child and understood early on how lucky I was to be born and raised in the United States,” she said. “For me, it’s all about giving back to a country that has given me so much. This internship has only reinforced my interest and desire to work for the government.” 

She added, “GSA is very person-oriented; I feel like part of a team even when working virtually, and the agency does a great job accommodating employees for teleworking: providing computers, phones, all the tech and equipment you need to be successful, which is rare.”  

Elly shared that part of what makes GSA special is that there is no room for boredom. “There are a variety of topics to explore, and you have the ability to work together with people who are learning about the things that you also find fascinating!” 

Advice for students interested in landing a GSA internship: “Be open, don’t be shy, and put yourself out there. People want to hear from you! Enjoy the experience you are given. Be your best self, because this is a great place to be.”

Andrew McElwain, Office of the Chief Financial Officer

Working for the government was a no-brainer for Andrew McElwain, an incoming senior at the University of Mary Washington (Fredericksburg, Virginia), who grew up with military parents. 

“Public service means giving back to the community and serving the people of your nation,” he said. “In my opinion, it is one’s duty to give back to where one comes from. This is my home, and I want to give back to it. Interning at GSA feels rewarding because I know I am making a real impact on the lives of Americans every day.” 

Advice for students interested in landing a GSA internship: “Just go for it. Try out a field you’re interested in, and if you don’t end up enjoying it, try something new, because GSA has everything you can imagine.”

Felix Raimondo, Office of the General Counsel 

Felix Raimondo, a third-year law school student at Arizona State University (Phoenix, Arizona), chose GSA because of his interest in public service and the experience he would gain from the federal government. “Plus, the people here are fantastic,” he added. 

“I’ve met so many amazing people who have crossed paths with GSA or made this their career. It’s so cool to learn how they approached their career and thought about tough decisions.” 

Advice for students interested in landing a GSA internship: “First, check USAJobs - set up an email notification for job postings. Second, make sure your USAJobs application is the best version it can be. Third, be yourself in the interview process - share your interests or goals about your career and life and the steps you have taken to achieve them.”

DeeAnn Scott, Public Buildings Service

DeeAnn Scott, a junior at Rowan University (Glassboro, New Jersey), agrees with Raimondo: “What I love most here is the environment, the people. Being around such affluent professionals makes me want to work harder and grow professionally. My supervisor Dyeshia Sampson is amazing and has been so helpful with this internship, she is really my role model right now.” 

DeeAnn, raised in suburban New Jersey, shared that she is not only gaining professional knowledge, but learning logistical life skills as well. “It was my first time catching the metro into the city! This helped me become a quicker learner and sharpened my time-management skills.” To Scott, public service means the world. “It’s like a badge of honor, to be able to serve the U.S. government, to see our country running smoothly. This country is such a blessing, and I’m just happy to contribute and help provide for society. GSA is truly the place to be!”

Advice for students interested in landing a GSA internship: “Always aim higher than what is asked of you. Also, always make sure you make an impression. Be nice, be on time, be professional, and go above and beyond in everything you do.”

All our interns agree on one thing: this summer internship at GSA is an invaluable stepping stone in their career paths. Having so many inspired, skilled professionals who are passionate about different fields, reinforces the importance of fresh talent in the government. This is exactly what GSA wants to attract – people who are eager to learn, contribute and make a difference for the American people.