McCoy participates in Native American Political Leadership Program

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. -- Enhancing her academic resume with further experience in Washington, D.C., Kendall McCoy, a senior English major at Northeastern State University, recently took part in the Native American Political Leadership Program (NAPLP).

While participating in the program, McCoy interned in the office of Sen. Tom Udall of New Mexico and participated in networking events.

"During that time I interacted heavily with constituents by phone, computer and regular mail," McCoy said. "I compiled materials and research that were used to brief Senator Udall, and outlined information gleaned from congressional and private hearings and briefings."

McCoy is a graduate of Rio Rancho High School in New Mexico and lists her current home address in Cookson.

Managed by the International Semester in Washington Program of George Washington University, the NAPLP gives American Indian students an educational opportunity to live and work in Washington on a full scholarship. Students take courses at GWU on political campaigning and strategy, intern in the U.S. Congress or at a federal agency, and interact with policy makers and political leaders.

The NAPLP was recommended to McCoy by a friend who completed the program in the summer of 2011.

"He told me what an amazing experience it had been and encouraged me to apply," McCoy said. "I had already lived and worked in Washington, and knew that I wanted to return and intern on the Hill, so it seemed like the perfect fit."

To be considered, McCoy submitted an application, a transcript, a letter of recommendation and an essay explaining how the NAPLP would benefit her education.

"The program director (Gregory Lebel) reviewed my application and a few days later I got a call asking if I would accept a position for the spring 2012 semester," McCoy said.

McCoy entered the program with prior experience in Washington. She has participated in the White House Internship Program, the Clinton Global Initiative University and the Cherokee Nation Washington Office Internship. She also took part in the Organizing Fellow Program with Organizing for America in Arlington, Va.

As her academic pursuits might suggest, McCoy's future plans include returning to Washington someday to build a career.

"I would like to work for a U.S. Senator, and eventually advise the White House on tribal affairs," she said