Freshman Savion Harris Takes Initiative with Early Internship at the Missouri Capitol

While most Lincoln University Political Science majors complete internships during their junior or senior years, freshman Savion Harris has already taken that step - securing an opportunity with David Tyson Smith at the Missouri State Capitol.

For Harris, the decision to pursue an internship early was intentional.

"The thing that motivated me the most was visualizing the relief of early completion," he said. "I wanted to learn the steps now. I wanted to grow now."

He credits his high school speech and debate coach, Danielle Johnson, with helping shape that mindset. "She taught me just because it looks like you can't get there doesn't mean you give up, but you get up and run to that door and knock until someone answers," Harris said.

He compares his freshman year experience to planting a seed. "I believe if you give a seed water and place it in dirt, all the knowledge and nutrients will attack it, and then it will grow. That is how I view myself as a freshman in this internship."

A Chance Encounter Becomes an Opportunity
Harris secured the internship after serving as a panel speaker at the Source Summit, an event hosted by his pastor, Lester Woods, in Columbia, Missouri. During the event, Harris spoke on a panel about growing up in Columbia Public Schools. Afterward, Smith approached him.

"David then came to me and offered me his business card and told me about an internship position at his office in the Capitol," Harris recalled.

About a week later, Harris worked up the courage to reach out. He did not receive an immediate response - but he didn't stop trying.

"I didn't get a reply back, but I didn't give up eventually," he said. Two months after the November event, he received a call from Smith's legislative assistant. "She told me that David mentioned me and was wondering if I was still interested in the intern position."

Harris quickly submitted his resume and schedule. "Four days later, I get an email saying I'm on the team. I couldn't believe it, but I never doubted that I didn't have what it takes to make it."

Learning the Legislative Process Firsthand
As an intern, Harris's responsibilities place him at the center of Missouri's legislative process. He attends public and executive hearings, taking notes while Representative Smith serves on panels. Afterward, he asks questions to clarify points or gain a deeper understanding.

He also reads and summarizes bills, providing feedback to help inform Smith's review before final decisions are made. Additionally, Harris sits in on House sessions, observing debates and watching representatives vote.

"I get to watch and experience the whole voting process and debates between the other representatives," he said. Observing both Democrats and Republicans has broadened his perspective. He has seen how members from different parties view legislation and work toward conclusions - something he has witnessed firsthand.

Among his biggest surprises were procedural details that many outside the Capitol never see.

"The things that have surprised me the most would be learning that the reps do ceremonial practice rounds of voting on bills before they final vote on Thursday," Harris said, noting that Monday through Wednesday sessions are often ceremonial. He was also intrigued to learn that there is more than one Speaker of the House, rotating during sessions.

Gaining Skills and Confidence
Beyond legislative knowledge, Harris says the internship has strengthened his skills and confidence.

"I have learned how to look up words I previously didn't know that I would later use in my political career," he said. Regular conversations with Smith have also given him insight into the reasoning behind votes and procedural decisions. "Having the insight on how the Missouri government operates and works has been really beneficial."

That knowledge has already made an impact. When friends ask about bills circulating online, Harris can now provide accurate explanations and context about how proposed legislation could affect them.

A Broader View of Politics
The experience has also reshaped Harris's understanding of political collaboration.

"I used to think if they are the opposite of your party, then that means they will never agree with you, which is not true," he said.

His biggest takeaway is clear: "In order to get things done, you have to work together regardless of your political view or beliefs because if you don't, you will never get stuff done and will just be fighting instead of taking action."

The internship has also pushed him outside his comfort zone. He now approaches members of the House directly to ask questions and seek clarification - something he once might have hesitated to do.

Advice to Fellow Students
For students considering early internships, Harris encourages them not to let doubt stand in the way.

"Don't listen to that voice that may say, 'you have no idea what you are getting into,'" he said. "You have to give up on the thought of things being too big or scary for you to try because if you take that advice, you will never know how to proceed."

He believes growth requires action.

"If you have a dream to become a better version of yourself and want to grow, then you should take every step necessary in that direction," Harris said.

By stepping into Missouri's legislative chambers as a freshman, Harris has already begun doing exactly that.