Idil Dirie Reflects on Her Capitol Pathways Internship

Guest Blog by Idil Dirie, Twin Cities Habitat's Capitol Pathways intern for 2023

Capitol Pathways provides access to policymaking and public service to the next generation of leaders who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). It is a paid spring internship program for BIPOC students who are currently enrolled in a 2 or 4 year college or university in Minnesota.

As my Capitol Pathways internship comes to an end, one of my main takeaways is realizing how much work goes into policy-making and policy changes. The number of conversations and meetings required to bring about those changes is fascinating. Observing how policy changes are made, and being an active participant in the process has been an incredible experience. My public health classes discuss policy changes and the types of changes needed to improve our community and society. Seeing it in action has been truly unique, and I am grateful for the opportunity.

During the beginning of my internship, it was challenging for me as an introvert to get comfortable expressing my opinions with others. However, approaching someone and introducing myself has become more natural, which I appreciate. It has helped me break out of my shell and engage with others. I love hearing about people's passions and how they got into their careers. This internship program has interns working in various fields, from Allina Health and insurance companies to energy companies. Initially, I wanted to intern at an insurance or healthcare company, but I am happy with my experience in a different field. In addition, I now understand how much housing impacts people's overall health.

It was such a great feeling to implement what I have learned in my courses at Hamline into my internship and role at Habitat. While researching, I would see things that could correlate with my public health knowledge and go back to the team to review what I have learned. While doing the research, I would read stories of people who never thought they could own a home, never thought their children would be able to, or their family would ever be able to live in a particular neighborhood. It is not easy to purchase a home, but seeing the statistics and evidence of how buying or renting a stabilized home can create assets for families and improve children's education while decreasing parents' stress levels has been eye-opening.

Raise your voice! Join the movement of Habitat supporters advocating for affordable homeownership in our cities, across Minnesota, and throughout the nation.