A Bag Big Enough to Carry Your Laptop
If you’re going to be working on the capitol campus, you will definitely need to bring your laptop in for researching legislation or statutes. Some interns do choose to bring in their school backpacks, but if you don’t want to throw off the rhythm of a professional outfit, I’d carry a nice large tote or leather backpack. Whatever you try to carry your laptop with, just be ready to take it out before you go through the metal detectors.
A Patterned Umbrella
What with Florida weather being as tumultuous as it is, you never know when you’ll be in for a washout. With that being said, there’s no reason to have a boring pattern on yours as you brave the downpour. What with everyone and their mother carrying the classic black emergency option, you’ll be sure to stand out with a nice leopard print or postmodern holographic number.
Translucent Powder
As much running as you may be doing chasing committee meetings or press conferences, you do run the risk of being shiny. It may not be the worst idea to carry a tin to combat the sheen.
A Lightweight Shift Dress
A sleeveless pencil cut that can be layered under a blazer will aide you on those days that the air conditioner either isn’t working or isn’t enough.
Travel-size Dry Shampoo
Humidity, high temps and day-long stress can take a toll on your crown. My Italian self constantly battles the greasy roots-dry ends conundrum, so Batiste has come through for me on multiple occasions.
A Full Suit
Girl, you’re working for a state government entity or external partnership. If you don’t own one already, invest in a jacket-ankle pants combo. You will not regret it.
Durable Flats or Block Heels
If you can brave a trek up “the Little Hill” in huge heels, my hat goes off to you, but if you are anything like me, you may be in for more of an obstacle course than you bargained for. Not to mention how far you may have to walk to the building if Governor’s Square parking lot is packed. Be strapped with a pair of pointed flats or bold chunky heels, and your ankles will not let you regret it.
Something Linen or Seersucker
As is hosted by Representative Wilhite every year, Feb. 26 is the Annual Seersucker Day at the Capitol. Lightweight and absolutely adorable in springtime, seersucker – or at least a nice linen piece – in your closet may prove valuable in a typically muggy Tallahassee climate.
Hoops, Obviously
Much in the spirit of Representative Eskamani, and with the Annual Florida Capitol Hoops Day on Feb. 27 right around the corner, it may be best to have a pair in your arsenal. Big or small, a pair of hoops add a little step of power to any ensemble.
A Positive Attitude
It’s easy to let the political flow get you down and make you cynical, but these are the best years of your life. Be cognizant, be absorbent, but go in with some sunshine. You got this, girl.
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