From Advocate to Intern: How One Student Discovered Public Policy

For Madeleine Hahs, a 2025 graduate of The Academy in Westminster, a passion for politics and public service wasn't something she was born with, but rather something she discovered after a 2024 visit to the Colorado State Capitol for Charter School Advocacy Day. Now, following two advocacy days and a pivotal internship, Madeleine is on a path to make a real impact on her community and state.

Stepping into the Colorado Capitol for the first time was a revelation, she says. “After many years of not knowing where I wanted to go in life or who I wanted to be, it clicked. I loved leading and politics.”

A meeting with Representative Shannon Bird at the 2025 event was especially impactful for Madeleine. “She was so kind, and I felt lucky to share my story with her,” says Madeleine. The day took an even more exciting turn when Governor Polis's staff, recognizing Madeleine's admiration for him, brought him out to meet her. “It was amazing to see one of my idols in person. These two moments truly inspired me to go into politics,” she shares.

The experience taught her a powerful lesson, she says. “Advocacy day showed me that legislators care about what we have to say, and regardless of your age, your voice matters, and you can make an impact,” shares Madeleine. This was underscored when Representative Bird later referenced The Academy while speaking against a bill that threatened charter school funding. “It was amazing to hear that my friends and I helped charter schools all around the state,” says Madeleine.

From Advocacy Day to Internship

Following her 2025 advocacy experience, Madeleine found herself increasingly drawn to the Capitol. “I missed it and wanted to spend more time there,” she explains. So she applied for an internship through the Colorado House of Democrats website. When the senior aide for representative Jacque Phillips in Thornton called about an interview, Madeleine immediately sought guidance from her AP Government teacher, Mr. Breese, who was a source of inspiration throughout the year.

The interview was a success, and within hours, Madeleine received exciting news: she got the position. “I immediately called my mom and told her because she had been on the edge of her seat, waiting to hear,” Madeleine recounts. Their celebratory dinner that night marked the beginning of a new chapter.

Her internship with Representative Phillips has been a profound learning experience, helping her delve into the intricacies of Colorado's legislative process, gain insight into the daily life of a legislator, and discover what makes a bill successful. While much of her work, such as writing bill summaries, is remote, she cherishes the time spent in person with Representative Phillips and her senior aide.

Although currently unpaid, Madeleine looks forward to a paid position in the future – and the work it brings. She's begun volunteering on Representative Bird's campaign, which has opened doors to more politicians and campaign managers. Soon, she'll begin paid campaign work for candidates across Adams County.

A Future in Public Policy

As Madeleine heads to the University of Denver this fall to study public policy, she's thrilled to continue her internship with Representative Phillips. Being at the Capitol and working for a State Representative is “truly a dream come true,” and she feels incredibly fortunate to be pursuing her passions at such a young age.

Madeleine's message to others across Colorado is clear: “Your voice matters, and if people don't seem to care about what you have to say, there is someone out there who is willing to listen.” 

“Coloradans deserve the right to choose where to go to school and grow up in an environment where their education is nurtured and their well-being is prioritized.” Madeleine’s journey from charter school advocate to aspiring public policy leader is a powerful example of what happens when students experience just that.