Abby Young '26: Being True to YOU

Discover the enriching journey of TFAS alumna Abby Young ‘26, a journalism major from the University of Oklahoma, who discovered a whole new world during her transformative summer in Washington, D.C.

🏫 University: University of Oklahoma
📚 Major: Journalism
📍 Hometown: Owasso, OK
🧭 Program Track: Journalism & Communications
💼 Internship: WORLD News Group

How has your TFAS Summer impacted you, professionally and/or personally?

🚀 Launchpad for the Future
My summer was an accelerated time of growth that helped me create meaningful connections, solidify my beliefs and pursue work in journalism. TFAS is an eight-week crash course in working a 9-to-5 while studying economics and developing professional skills. It’s a great launchpad. I found TFAS guest lectures and course readings so edifying, and they helped me better articulate my beliefs and internalize America’s founding principles. I also learned so much by working with media professionals and listening to their advice along the way. I’m grateful for their wisdom and investment in my future. My summer with TFAS encouraged me that my aspirations are possible and equipped me to pursue them.

What was the most interesting thing you did at your internship?

🇺🇸 Covering History
My internship with World News Group was the best part of my summer. I looked forward to Mondays more than weekends! I’m so thankful for the opportunities and relationships I found there. Covering the Great American State Fair for America’s 250th birthday was a highlight — I interviewed fair-goers, explored the grounds, and attended President Donald Trump’s speech on kickoff day. On-the-ground reporting is my favorite, and I was so happy to have the chance to engage with people at such a special moment in our nation’s history. All summer long, I had a wonderful experience learning from World’s staff and covering stories that mattered.

What did you like most about living in Washington, D.C.?

✨Everything but Bordem Lives Here
D.C. is unlike any other place I’ve been. It’s bustling and loud, yet beautiful, peaceful and full of green spaces. As a military child, I’ve always been passionate about my country, and being in D.C. brought American history to life in a fresh way. It has the best sights for when you’re feeling touristy, as well as unique spots to explore. Living somewhere walkable is a joy, and it makes for the coolest running routes: try running out to a memorial, stopping to explore, then running back! There’s plenty to do here, and you’ll never be bored (pro tip: go to the Post Office Museum, it’s my favorite!).

How did this experience change the way you show up in professional spaces?

🫵 Be YOU
It’s not worth trying to live up to a fake “D.C. professional” image. This summer showed me my personality can be a strength in professional spaces, and that being genuine still matters. Those who might be less assertive (that’s me!) don’t have to play a character to succeed. Instead, lean into your own strengths. It’s better to form meaningful, professional connections by honestly relating to others and being curious. When you accept that, you can inhabit your professional role with more confidence and excitement.

What advice do you have for future TFAS students?

🧑‍🏫 You can learn from Everyone
Treat everyone as someone to learn from, whether it’s your coworkers, TFAS peers, new connections or those you think you have nothing to “gain” from. Show up with genuine curiosity and humility. It’s not about proving yourself to others — your hard work will already do that — it’s about learning from them. Yes, diligence matters, but it’s just as important to be inquisitive and kind.

📓 Keep a Jornal
I’d also recommend that you journal your thoughts throughout your time here. This is a unique summer to consider different paths within your field or progress in pursuing your passion. Reflect as you go about what you enjoy, what you don’t, and what it’s like to live and work in Washington. At the end of the summer, you can compile your thoughts and the advice you received as you prepare for whatever comes next.