Internship Blog Series- Diplomacy Student Interns at the White House
Anna Lulkin, a Spring 2025 School of Diplomacy and International Relations graduate, spent the Fall 2024 semester interning at the White House. She majored in international relations and minored in Italian, and worked in the Office of Administration’s Personnel Security Division.
With guidance from her professors, New York native Lulkin successfully navigated a rigorous interview process and secured a position in the Executive Office of the President. A dream come true, the experience aligned with her passion for national security and her desire to serve her country.
During the semester, she worked in a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility, a secure area where electronic devices are prohibited. Her responsibilities included supporting the personnel security team, reviewing and managing sensitive documentation, and assisting with clearance processes. She also helped maintain and prepare records related to security investigations and clearance statuses.
A highlight of her internship was the weekly speaker series organized by the White House Internship Program. These events gave her the chance to network with senior White House staff and policymakers, and even meet the President and Chief of Staff. Reflecting on the program, Lulkin shared, “Besides the day-to-day tasks, the White House Internship Program embraces everyone’s unique background. They care so much that we are all from different backgrounds and want to explore different fields within political science. It was a great experience.”
In addition to her internship, Lulkin earned credits through classes at the United Nations Foundation. She says her semester in Washington opened new doors and credits Seton Hall as pivotal to her success. “If I had not come here, I would not have been able to intern at the White House,” she said. “The coursework in the School of Diplomacy was so important because it gave me a background in security. I took classes in global health, bioterrorism, conflict and security, and international law that prepared me for this internship.”
After graduating in May, Lulkin plans to attend law school to further her career in public service. With previous experience in Congress and at the Suffolk County Courthouse, she has now worked in all three branches of government. “Each role gave me valuable, hands-on experience, but the White House provided an inside look at our nation’s government.”
Lulkin’s journey shows how Diplomacy students can thrive by seizing opportunities. Her dedication reflects the School’s high standards and the role of driven individuals in shaping the future of public service.
