My name is Tayja C. Whyte, and I am from Northeast Philadelphia, specifically the Rising Sun and Olney area. I’m a rising senior at Pace University studying Political Science and Journalism. 

Writing has always been my main source of entertainment. Whether I am exploring the past, the present, or most important to me, civil rights and public services, I use a creative approach to engage many perspectives in the conversation. 

As a proud Philadelphian and alumna of Philadelphia High School for Girls, I have a deep appreciation for my city.  I spent my whole life here until college and want to make a positive impact in the community that shaped me. 

I chose the Mayor’s Internship Program because it was close to home and gave me an opportunity to gain experience in a possible career path with local government, public service, and community development. Two areas of interest I have are in law and public policy, and I plan to attend law school with the goal of implementing policy and protecting democracy. 

Through the Mayor’s Internship Program, I’ve been able to combine two of my academic interests in a meaningful way. My work with the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and the City College for Municipal Employment (CCME), has allowed me to contribute to communications initiative like social media engagement with the new CCME LinkedIn, blog writing, and interviewing CCME alumni and mentors. These opportunities have sharpened my skills and given me a deeper understanding of how local government connects with residents and employees. 

 This is my first internship since starting my college career, and it has given me the chance to gain experience and begin what I hope will be a long-lasting career in policy and service to the residents of Philadelphia.