Meet PDAA Summer Intern Ainsley Steele

PDAA’s 2026 Summer Intern Ainsley Steele

Ainsley Steele is a recent graduate of Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, where she earned her degree in Public Policy & Law. She is spending summer 2026 interning with the Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association and learning a lot, she says.

Q: What drew you to apply for an internship with PDAA?

PDAA does so much to support district attorneys, and I wanted to better understand the legislative and policy work behind that support. I’ve been interested in how public policy is developed and implemented, and this internship has shown me how many different policy issues affect prosecutors’ work. Although prosecutors’ responsibilities are not inherently political, the policies debated in Harrisburg directly impact how district attorneys’ offices operate and respond to the needs of their communities.

Q: What is one thing you learned or were surprised to find out?

I’ve been surprised by how complex the politics behind policymaking can be. Before this internship, I understood passing legislation takes time, I didn’t realize how much politics can influence whether a bill gains support or opposition. Even when there is broad agreement that an issue should be addressed, differences in priorities and political considerations make it difficult to move legislation forward. I also didn’t expect the wide variety of issues that affect prosecutors’ work.

One of my main assignments has been coordinating district attorneys’ participation in the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI). Through conversations with DAs and PCCD staff across the state, I’ve learned how different counties across Pennsylvania are from one another. It has been a great opportunity to strengthen my communication and project management skills.

Q: How will this experience shape your long-term career goals?

I’ve really enjoyed seeing how PDAA identifies issues that impact prosecutors and how the association advocates for those priorities. It was eye‑opening to observe what goes into advancing an issue on behalf of an organization that has a clear position on one side or the other.

I’m interested in a career that combines policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and strategic communication, particularly in roles that help organizations contribute to public policy discussions.

Q: What advice do you have for other students who want to get the most out of their internship?
Say yes to every opportunity. Opportunities to learn are valuable even when unfamiliar. Keep an optimistic and curious mindset. Get to know your coworkers and learn why they chose their career.

Ainsley has been a tremendous asset to the PDAA team this summer. She is actively seeking a position that will allow her to build on her degree and experience.