ethan abner

As the Legislative Correspondent for the Office of Congressman Thomas J. Rooney, my main responsibility was managing e-mail correspondence between the office and constituents. I often spent time communicating with constituents over the phone, respectfully explaining the Congressman’s position on legislation with which the constituent might have disagreed. In order to adequately address constituent concerns, I conducted in-depth research to gain a better understanding of the topics being addressed. The research I conducted was compiled and edited into a response that best addressed the constituent’s concern and accurately portrayed the Congressman’s stance. I also conducted research on behalf of the legislative staff on various topics, such as defense, veterans affairs, and foreign policy. My job required working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and proficiency with Intranet Quorum 4.

As the Military Legislative Assistant I advised the Member of Congress on issues concerning national security, defense, nuclear security, space, technology, and intelligence as they related to his position on the House Appropriations Committee and House Intelligence Committee. This required condensing complex policy topics into briefings or memos for review and use by the Member or senior staff. Additionally, I met with senior members of the military and defense communities to discuss issues pertaining to policy, legislation, and appropriations. Finally, I was responsible for introducing, tracking, and managing legislation that promoted or aligned with the Congressman's priorities.

As a security sentry I was responsible for ensuring the security of level 2 and level 3 restricted areas. Upon receiving my TS/Yankee White clearance in late 2009, I became responsible for securing assets at various event sites as well as mission locations. Although a performed physical security functions, I was also responsible for monitoring a variety of electronic detections systems; PTZ cameras, fixed cameras, ground based radar detection systems, taut wire, microwave radar systems, biometric scanners, and motion detections systems. I recorded incidents in the daily security log, dispatched Marines to confront possible intruders, and ensured appropriate procedure was followed in allowing access to restricted areas. I also acted as the desk sergeant on occasion, accounting for various badges and keys and ensuring that they were issued to appropriate personnel based on daily access requests.

Worked as a summer intern in conjunction with a course from William and Mary's Summer Institute, focused on the polarization in politics. As an intern I attended more than five congressional subcommittee hearings, summarized the discussion, and provided legislative staff with briefs regarding the topics discussed. I conducted research for a number of legislative initiatives including the Congressman's initiative to prevent TSA agents from receiving funding for police-like uniforms and badges. I worked with outside organizations to gauge interest in providing endorsement for congressional initiatives. My duties also required involvement with constituents on a day-to-day basis. I led five tours of the U.S. Capitol, drafted over ten letters for correspondence, answered phone calls and recorded constituent concerns/comments regarding legislation, and updated constituent information in IQ4. I also spent my final week working in a field office, assisting in the resolution of local constituent issues.

As a bookseller I am focused on customer service. Typically I answer phone calls and process customer orders. I offer assistance in locating items for customers and suggest additional items that may complement their interests. Oftentimes I provide break relief for cashiers, conducting point of sale transactions and informing customers of the benefits of membership with Barnes and Noble. When I'm not assisting customers I shelve items in accordance with company policy.