Internship Spotlights
Internship Spotlights
By engaging directly with real-world challenges and innovations, collaborating on research and consulting projects, and working alongside seasoned practitioners, interns gain both soft and technical skills, build professional networks, and develop the confidence to take on leadership roles.
Isabella Romano
In this Q&A, we catch up with Isabella Romano, analyst on Moody’s Ratings’ Midwest Local Government team and former GFOA intern. Isabella shares how her career path led from graduate school and research at UIC’s Government Finance Research Center to her current role evaluating credits across the Midwest. She reflects on the lessons she gained from her GFOA internship, the skills that have shaped her success, and her perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing local governments today.
Alex Weatherup
In this Q&A, we catch up with Alex Weatherup, assistant director in Detroit’s General Services Department and former GFOA intern. Alex reflects on his eight years serving the City of Detroit, from implementing COVID-era funding and managing major city assets to leading procurement and reporting across the department. He shares how his GFOA internship opened doors early in his career, the lessons he’s carried into his leadership role, and his perspective on the challenges and opportunities of working in local government.
Elliot Karl
In this Q&A, we catch up with Elliot Karl, assistant deputy bureau chief at the Cook County Bureau of Economic Development and former GFOA intern. Elliot reflects on his path from graduate school and early roles in transportation finance to overseeing operations, administration, and strategic planning at one of the nation’s largest counties. He shares how his GFOA internship shaped his research and perspective, the lessons he’s carried into leadership, and his vision for supporting effective public service and community impact.
Samuel Mann
In this Q&A, we catch up with Samuel Mann, management assistant for the City of Long Beach and former GFOA intern. Samuel shares how his journey from graduate school and national service to his current rotational program in one of California’s largest cities has shaped his understanding of local government. He reflects on the skills and lessons gained during his GFOA internship, the complexities and rewards of municipal work, and his vision for making a meaningful impact on residents and his community.