Muhlenberg athletes are spending the summer of 2025 enjoying fantastic experiences on campus, in their hometowns, and across the country.

Rising senior baseball player Evan Virno, a political science major, got a firsthand look at politics in action by working on two campaigns in Florida.

This summer, I'm interning with a strategic consulting firm in Fort Myers, Florida, where I've had the opportunity to work directly on political campaigns. As a political science major at Muhlenberg College, I was excited to gain hands-on experience in campaign strategy, messaging, and voter outreach. This internship has provided me with the opportunity to experience the fast-paced world of political consulting and public affairs.

I pursued this opportunity because I wanted to see what politics looks like beyond textbooks and lectures. Campaigns are full of moving parts, including media strategy, public engagement, fundraising, and research. Being immersed in that environment has been both exciting and eye-opening. I've always been interested in how political narratives are shaped, and this role has allowed me to contribute to that process in real-time.

One of the things I enjoy most is the variety of tasks I get to work on each day. From researching policy issues to staffing campaign events, no two days are the same. Working with both a local commissioner candidate and a congressional candidate has also helped me understand the differences in how campaigns are run at various levels of government and how each requires a different approach.

The experience has already proven valuable in terms of career development. I'm developing communication and critical thinking skills that will translate well to various career paths, including political consulting, public policy, and law. I'm also learning how to adapt quickly, think strategically, and communicate effectively — especially when time is limited and the stakes are high.

My coursework at Muhlenberg laid the foundation for much of what I'm doing now. Classes on American government and public policy provided me with the background to understand the political landscape in which I'm working. They also helped me develop a strong understanding of institutional structures, voter behavior, and political communication, all of which I use daily.

One of the most memorable parts of my internship so far has been staffing events for a congressional campaign. Being on the ground at these events has given me a firsthand look at how candidates connect with voters, donors, and local leaders. It's been a great way to see the energy and strategy behind politics, and it's made the work feel even more meaningful knowing I'm contributing to a campaign that's actively shaping public dialogue in our community.

pictured above: Virno (right) with other campaign interns