Experience Spotlight: Makayla Washington

Name: Makayla Washington

 

Pronouns: she/her/hers

 

Semester of Work Experience: Summer 2026

 

UMBC Major or Program: Media and Communications & English (Literature and Culture Track)

 

Current Class Level: Junior

 

I recently obtained experience in a(n)...: Internship

 

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Library of Congress

 

Location of the Organization (City, State): Washington D.C.

 

Title of position: Visitor Engagement Intern

 

Tell us about your experience, including your day-to-day responsibilities:

As a summer intern with the Visitor Engagement Office at the Library of Congress, I've had the opportunity to experience the Library from a perspective that most visitors never see. My days are centered on helping people make the most of their visit, whether that means welcoming guests through ticketing, assisting with wayfinding, answering questions, facilitating the Main Reading Room Experience, or supporting programming in the SOURCE, the Library's children's research space. Along the way, I've developed a deeper understanding of the Thomas Jefferson Building, its history, and many of the Library's most significant collections, allowing me to better connect visitors with resources that align with their interests and inspire further exploration.

 

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?

I first came across the internship on Handshake and applied in late January, extremely interested in the opportunity but not entirely expecting where it would lead. After being invited to interview in February, I completed a virtual interview in early March before moving through the department recommendation and reference review. After successfully completing a background investigation, I was extended a final offer to join the Library of Congress as an official summer intern.

 

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

Handshake

 

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?

Without question, the people have been my favorite part of working at the Library of Congress. The Visitor Engagement Office is one of the most collaborative environments I've experienced, and it's impossible to do this work without appreciating how many people contribute to creating a positive visitor experience. Beyond my own colleagues, I've gotten to know staff across the Library, VEO volunteers, and our security team, all of whom play an important role in keeping the Library running each day. Over the past eight weeks, the relationships that I've made have become the most meaningful part of my internship. I've met people who have generously shared their knowledge, encouraged my growth, and made me feel like a valued member of the team rather than just an intern.

 

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?

Helping facilitate the Main Reading Room Experience has been one of the most rewarding parts of my internship. When I first started, I was nervous about working inside the Reading Room because I wanted to make sure I could answer visitors' questions confidently. Over time, though, those conversations became my favorite part of the job. I love watching people step into the room for the first time, take in its beauty, and then begin asking questions about the Library, its collections, or how they can conduct research there. In those moments, I have the opportunity to be a welcoming first point of contact and help visitors discover how the Library can support their interests by connecting them with the right resources, departments, or collections. Some of my favorite moments have come from talking with younger visitors whose excitement at experiencing the Main Reading Room is contagious. Being able to answer their questions, encourage their curiosity, and know that I may have helped spark a lifelong appreciation for libraries, research, and public service is the impact I'm most proud of.

 

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?

Don't count yourself out before you've given yourself the chance to be considered. I almost didn't apply because I convinced myself I wasn't qualified enough, but taking that chance led to one of the coolest experiences of my college career. I'd also encourage future interns not to let the word "intern" limit how they see themselves. At times it can be a tricky mindset but you're there because someone believed you could contribute, so don't be afraid to introduce yourself, ask questions, and build relationships with the people around you. The experience you gain is valuable, but it's often the people you meet and the connections you make that leave the biggest impact.