The Impact Office at the Zahava and Moshael J. Straus Center for Torah and Western Thought provides grants to students across Â鶹Çø’s undergraduate student body who pursue internships in public policy, national security, and public service. The Impact Office recently spoke with Ayelet Friedman (SCW ’27), a member of Cohort III of the Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks–Herenstein Center Leadership Scholars Program, about her summer internships at the Jewish Institute for National Security of America (JINSA) and in the office of Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA). She reflects on her work in Middle East policy and constituent services, and on how these experiences strengthened her commitment to public service, Israeli advocacy, and Jewish leadership.
From the Hill to National Security Policy: A Summer in Public Service and Jewish Leadership
By Ayelet Friedman
This past summer, I had the immense privilege of interning at the Jewish Institute for National Security of America (JINSA) and in the United States Senate, in the office of Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA). Across both experiences, I worked alongside dedicated experts, research analysts, and legislative staff, which further deepened my interest in public affairs, and domestic and international policy. As someone interested in a career centered on these issues as well as Israel advocacy, these two internships offered a firsthand look at the inner workings of the national security sector.
At JINSA, whose mission is to advance U.S. national security interests in the Middle East, I conducted in-depth research on the U.S.–Israel relationship and broader international security issues. One major focus of my work examined the global semiconductor industry and its relevance to the CHIPS and Science Act, particularly as strategic competitors such as China continue to expand their technological capabilities. In the context of national security, I explored how semiconductors underpin both economic growth and military infrastructure. ​
I particularly enjoyed researching all things pertaining to Iran and its proxies, especially relating to Israel. My work included studying developments in nuclear warfare and the evolving strategies of the United States and Israel in response. ​
Another memorandum I produced that I found specifically intriguing was studying the U.S.-Syrian history and the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw military troops from Syria and consolidate the groups from eight to one. Amid the ongoing turmoil in Syria following the collapse of the Assad regime and the widespread violence and displacement targeting the Druze community, the fragile stability of the emerging government marks a pivotal moment to examine the complex intersections between the United States, Syria and Israel. These experiences strengthened my interests in international politics, national security and Middle East affairs.
Immediately following JINSA, I had the honor of interning in the office of Senator Dave McCormick, a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and chair of the Subcommittee on the Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism. Working in his office during a period of heightened global tensions was both challenging and rewarding. I assisted daily with constituent services, gave Capitol tours, and supported legislative research on issues including Medicaid and Social Security. As the toxin of antisemitism spreads across the world, being part of an office dedicated to strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship, wearing my hostage pin without hesitation and speaking proudly about my unwavering support for Israel was both empowering and deeply meaningful.
During my time in the office, I witnessed several significant moments early in Senator McCormick’s tenure. I observed his inaugural Senate speech, and there I witnessed true leadership, as he bowed respectfully to those who came before him and conveyed sincere gratitude to those who had enabled him to assume such a position. ​
I attended his first hearing as subcommittee chair, where he and Ranking Member Senator Jacky Rosen spoke forcefully about Israel’s right to defend itself. Hearing these representatives’ statements while taking thorough notes for a briefing was raw and powerful, knowing how much they are willing to fight for the truth amidst so much hatred and backlash. I am beyond thankful for these unique experiences. ​
I also saw the launch of the Energy and Innovation Summit in Pennsylvania. With President Trump and top energy and tech leaders in attendance, the event was especially successful in its bipartisan reach and forward-looking agenda. This convention also paved the way for one of the most significant moments in Pennsylvania: a $90 billion investment in its data centers, energy and AI. To be a part of this historic moment under McCormick’s leadership was remarkable. ​
Across both internships, I learned to conduct policy research under time-sensitive deadlines while producing clear, high-quality memos. I strengthened my analytical and writing skills, gained exposure to the realities of legislative and national security work and developed a deeper understanding of how research informs decision-making. Informal conversations with staffers and policy professionals further shaped my sense of what a future in public service might look like. ​
This summer was made possible with support from the Straus Center, which is dedicated to fostering influential Jewish leadership among my generation. As someone who openly identifies as an Orthodox Jew, wearing a Magen David necklace every day, I am always conscious of being a positive role model for the Jewish community. Receiving their support strengthened my drive to make a kiddush Hashem [to sanctify God’s name] on the Hill. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn in the heart of Washington and to engage directly with some of the most pressing issues facing the United States and its allies. ​
I would recommend such an internship to a Â鶹Çø student for this exact reason: the power of being in the seat of government, the center of national impact, while experiencing and engaging with the most pressing and relevant matters. Interacting with legislators—whether by phone, mail or in person—is vital to keeping our democracy alive and thriving. Each voice, I have learned, has made a significant impact in the legislative order and will continue to have an effect inside and outside of Washington, D.C. These experiences have demonstrated the importance of utilizing every opportunity, connection and moment.
I am deeply grateful to Â鶹Çø for the opportunities it has afforded me.
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