We asked several of the 2023–2024 program assistants to assess their time at FCNL. We asked them how the program helped them grow, what they learned, what they enjoyed most, and their advice for the 2024–2025 cohort of program assistants.
We edited their responses for brevity:
Afreen Minai, Militarism and Human Rights
FCNL has allowed me to kickstart my career in policy by providing me the foundational knowledge and connections necessary to succeed in this field. I have really enjoyed having the opportunity to learn about foreign policy and get exposed to the important work other organizations are doing alongside FCNL.
I most enjoyed getting the inside scoop on what was happening on the Hill!
Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. It can be easy to fall into a routine, but attending events and taking charge of projects will make your fellowship so much more valuable to you.
Lauren Evans, Peacebuilding
The program really helped me in learning how to take constructive criticism and grow from it. I felt so strongly about my own writing ability that I grew frustrated when I got my first piece of writing back, and it was covered in edits. Working through the edits, learning how to take what others say and use it effectively benefited me enormously.
Getting to work with and for impacted people was easily the most inspiring part of the job. I first met peacebuilders from the East and Horn of Africa in December 2023, helping them schedule meetings with Congress and the administration. That these people were willing to risk their safety, their livelihoods, just to come tell their stories in a country that was unfamiliar to them, was incredibly inspiring.
Odeliya Matter, Middle East
Joining this program is the best professional decision I have made to date. Before the program I had been working in grassroots advocacy as well as local journalism, but since joining FCNL, I have broadened my professional prospects to include international and governmental advocacy and lobbying.
I have not stopped learning since starting the program. First, I learned about how the US government functions (or does not) regarding legislation and dynamics on Capitol Hill. I have also learned from coalition partners extensively on strategies to unite against war, to support each other, to learn to center those most impacted by the issues we are addressing, and to organize and mobilize advocates around shared goals.
Believe in yourself! As cliche as it may sound, you will find that what was nerve-wracking at the beginning of your program will become routine towards the end.
Carla Montilla, Sustainable Energy and the Environment
Being a cohort with other program assistants meant I had a built-in support system that helped me navigate life as a young professional in D.C. I also got to learn more about Quakers, and it was an honor to be a steward of history, practices, and values of Quakers in Congress.
The biggest advice I have is to embrace that the learning experience never ends. Congress, policy, and each portfolio at FCNL are complex. I learned something new every day. Learning is not a sign of ignorance, but a sign that you are open to growth.
