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2025 Interns

Below are the spotlight information of my 2025 interns, beginning with the spring term.

Kennedy Cummins - D.C. Spring 2025

College/University:

Boise State University

Major:

Political Science with an emphasis in American Government and Public Policy

Policy Areas of Interest:

Agriculture, Immigration and Education.

Goals After Graduation:

I plan to spend a year getting professional experience in either a congressional office or law firm that specializes in my areas of interest. Then, I’d love to continue my education to obtain a Juris Doctorate or Masters of Public Administration.

Favorite Part of Idaho and Why:

The Snake River is one of my favorites. I grew up in southern Idaho and would spend the majority of my summers wake surfing, tubing and simply enjoying the company of close friends and family out on the river. The Snake River also runs underneath the Perrine Bridge, through Shoshone Falls, and is the gateway to many hidden springs. It is truly a beautiful sight.

What Led You to Applying for this Internship:

I had previously worked in Senator Crapo’s Boise office and loved every second of it. So, when I got accepted into Boise State’s Capital Connection Program, which allows me to study and intern in D.C., I knew I had to secure an internship with the Senator. The work he has done for Idahoans is remarkable and his policy issues align greatly with my own.

Additional Thoughts:

It has been such a privilege to work with the Senator and his amazing staff. Their dedication to public service has made me excited about my future career. I’m so fortunate that everyone in the office takes time to ensure I receive crucial skills and connections to set me up for future success.

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Madison Schmidt - D.C. Spring 2025

College/University:

Boise State University

Major:

Political Science

Policy Areas of Interest:

Education, Health Care, Immigration, Housing and Agriculture.

Goals After Graduation:

After graduation, I plan to stay in Boise and focus on local and state politics. My long-term goal is to work as a lobbyist in the Idaho State Legislature, advocating for policies that improve the lives of Idahoans in tangible ways.

Favorite Part of Idaho and Why:

What I love most about Idaho is both its people and its natural beauty. The kindness of Idahoans stands out—strangers greeting each other as they pass by is a unique and warm part of our culture. I'm also drawn to the stunning landscapes, from the mountains to the rivers. I love hiking, walking the Greenbelt, floating the river and paddle boarding—there’s so much to enjoy and explore in this beautiful state.

What Led You to Applying for this Internship:

I applied for this internship as part of Boise State’s School of Public Service Capitol Connections Program. This program offers a unique opportunity for BSU students to gain firsthand work experience in Washington, D.C., while also engaging in valuable development courses online. I chose to apply for Senator Crapo’s office because I’ve heard it’s an outstanding environment to work and learn, with a team of people always willing to offer guidance and support. It was an easy decision to apply here.

Additional Thoughts:

I’m excited to be part of this internship because it gives me a chance to develop a deeper understanding of how the federal government operates while contributing to meaningful work. The experience so far has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m looking forward to learning even more from the team here in the Senator's office.

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Samuel Jardine - D.C. Spring 2025

College/University:

Brigham Young University

Major:

Political Science

Minor:

Business

Policy Areas of Interest:

Tax, Business, Banking and Market Policy.

Goals After Graduation:

I have not decided exactly what career I want to jump into after graduation, but something that utilizes my passion for good governance, financial policy and interacting with people. I have experience in sales, journalism and politics, so whatever field I land in will likely combine some of those skills and passions. I also am excited to begin a family with my wonderful wife, Caroline, and work with her to raise children with whom we can share our exciting future.

Favorite Part of Idaho and Why:

My favorite part of Idaho is Southeastern Idaho, in the valleys and hills approaching the Tetons. I am an avid camper and hiker, so I love taking advantage of the incredible scenery and beautiful Idaho landscapes. This setting perfectly represents the greatness of the American outdoors, and it is always a pleasure to spend time there.

What Led You to Applying for this Internship:

I had the option to pursue an internship in Washington, D.C., for college credit, so I applied to Senator Crapo’s office as my first choice. This office seemed to be the perfect fit because I am a native Idahoan interested in financial public policy, and Senator Crapo was slated to become the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee. Through my college courses, I had developed an interest in the legislative politics of the United States Congress. This internship provided the perfect opportunity to gain hands-on experiences in government that would not only build upon my classroom studies but also serve as a catalyst for a life of political engagement and involvement.

Additional Thoughts:

It has been incredible to be in Washington, D.C., during this historic and unprecedented time. Senator Crapo and his office have been involved in many major events, including the nomination and confirmation process for President Trump’s cabinet positions, the reconciliation process and more. Participation in these events, along with tours of the Capitol, have helped me gain a deeper appreciation for our nation’s history and institutions.

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Erika Amaral-Pelayo - D.C. Summer 2025

College/University:

University of Idaho

Major:

Political Science

Minors:

Spanish and Business Economics

Policy Areas of Interest:

Budgets and Appropriations, Immigration and Education.

Goals After Graduation:

I plan to work at a law firm and head straight into continuing my education towards a Juris Doctorate the following school year.

Favorite Part of Idaho and Why:

McCall, Idaho, is one of my favorite places! It was my family’s go-to spot during road trips and it was a must for us to stop at the Ice Cream Alley. Another staple is the McCall Winter Carnival, where artists create snow and ice sculptures.

What Led You to Applying for this Internship:

I had an internship during the 2024 Idaho Legislative Session where I focused on the Senate, and got to see how the legislative process worked at the state level. I enjoyed my time so much that I knew I wanted to expand and apply my knowledge at the federal level. This office seemed like the perfect fit, because the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee during the Idaho session peaked my interest on how the annual state budget was crafted. With Senator Crapo as the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, it was a great opportunity to be in an environment that had a focus in financial public policy.

Additional Thoughts:

I am incredibly grateful to be part of this internship and getting to know the amazing staff. It is my first time ever being in Washington, D.C., and it has been one of the greatest opportunities to learn more about our nation’s history, seeing the federal legislative process, and getting to explore the beautiful city!

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Ethan Gilpin - D.C. Summer 2025

College/University:

Montana State University

Major:

Political Science

Minors:

Economics and Business Finance

Policy Areas of Interest:

International Trade, Foreign Affairs, National Security, Small Businesses and Transportation.

Goals After Graduation:

Attend law school and consult for and represent small businesses to help entrepreneurs pursue their dreams.

Favorite Part of Idaho and Why:

Coeur d’Alene Lake – A perfect blend of natural beauty and recreation; it’s one of the most peaceful and inspiring places I’ve visited.

What Led You to Applying for this Internship:

The chance to work on Capitol Hill for the summer, which has always been a dream—and to do so in the office of the Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee during the most influential tax and financial overhaul in decades, was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

Additional Thoughts:

One of the highlights so far was watching the nomination hearing for Joseph Barloon to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to the World Trade Organization. That’s a dream job of mine—representing the United States in global trade—and getting to witness it in person was incredibly meaningful.

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Kylie Keysor - D.C. Summer 2025

College/University:

Brigham Young University

Major:

Business

Policy Areas of Interest:

Education, Finance and Foreign Affair

Goals After Graduation:

I'm still in the process of refining my long-term goals, but I know I want to pursue a professional degree after graduation to strengthen my skills and open doors. I've really enjoyed my time on the Crapo team, and the experience has confirmed my interest in continuing to work in Washington, D.C. I'm excited to keep building on what I’ve learned here and apply those experiences toward a meaningful career.

Favorite Part of Idaho and Why:

My favorite part of Idaho is the outdoors and natural beauty! It is really grounding being surrounded by wide open spaces and untouched landscapes. The mountains, trees and lakes give me space to think, recharge and feel more connected to the world around me.

What Led You to Applying for this Internship:

I’ve always been interested in public policy, but I wanted to go beyond and really understand how it all works in practice. That curiosity led me to apply for a Capitol Hill internship. It felt like the best way to gain firsthand experience and start building a foundation for my future career.

Additional Thoughts:

I have loved learning about the legislative process and the dynamics of the Senate. Also, being surrounded by a great, helpful staff has made the experience even more enjoyable!

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