Kleppinger Intern puts political science studies into practice in Harrisburg

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa.— Nikolas Papoutsis, a third-year Schreyer Scholar majoring in political science with a minor in history and pursuing a Smeal College Business Fundamentals Certificate at Penn State, spent his summer in Harrisburg interning with the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry.

Papoutsis was one of three students selected for the David M. and Joanne M. Kleppinger Pennsylvania Government Relations Internship Program in the College of the Liberal Arts for summer 2026. The program provides students with opportunities to gain field experience in government relations and public policy, as well as enrichment funding to support their internship experiences.

“The Kleppingers providing this endowment opens the door for so many students,” Papoutsis said. “It takes a lot of the financial burdens away from the internship, and it also opens the door for future opportunities.”

Papoutsis thoroughly enjoyed his time as a government relations intern at the PA Chamber, a statewide business advocacy and government affairs organization.

His role involved a wide range of responsibilities, from researching proposed legislation and drafting memos to attending events and supporting projects across Pennsylvania. Working just a few minutes from the state Capitol allowed him to dive into how legislation really works behind the scenes.

In July, Papoutsis had the opportunity to speak at the annual Best Places to Intern in PA press conference, held by the PA Chamber Foundation at the Capitol. The conference recognizes organizations across the state that provide outstanding internship experiences.

Among the speakers chosen to present at the conference was Papoutsis, who discussed his experience at the PA Chamber and how it broadened his understanding of government affairs while connecting classroom learning to practical experience.

“In terms of Pennsylvania, if we want to have a stronger state in the future, it’s important to offer these internships to incentivize kids to want to stay here and take advantage of the opportunities,” Papoutsis said.

Papoutsis said he was especially proud of his involvement with the Great American State Fair, which was held in Washington, D.C., and brought together states from around the country to showcase their communities and what they have to offer.

For the event, Papoutsis worked with fellow interns to set up a booth for Pennsylvania U.S. Senators David McCormick and John Fetterman. In preparation, he coordinated the pickup of donations from businesses across the state and transported them between Harrisburg and D.C., where they were displayed.

“It was more of an on-the-spot project,” Papoutsis said. “But it was fun using my communication skills and coordinating this.”

When he wasn’t speaking at events or organizing the booth, Papoutsis spent much of his time analyzing legislation and drafting memos. One of his research projects focused on aviation taxes, specifically examining how proposed legislation could impact businesses.

Papoutsis also had the chance to attend numerous committee hearings, gaining insight into how the state budget is developed.

“This summer, I was really able to figure out how legislation actually works,” Papoutsis said.

As an aspiring law student, Papoutsis said he found the internship to be a highlight of his academic and professional career, acquiring skills he’ll carry with him as he explores future opportunities.

“As a political science major, I gained a much better understanding of what happens in the real world beyond theory,” Papoutsis said. “I also learned the importance of approaching situations with an open mind and considering different perspectives. That’s something I can bring back to my academic work and carry with me into future opportunities.”