STUDENT SPOTLIGHT filled with history,” Soud says.“ I was in awe on a daily basis.”
EMILY SOUD
SENIOR
AIMING BEYOND LIMITS
Nine years ago Jacksonville University senior Emily Soud stood among the crowds at the presidential inauguration in Washington, D. C., imagining what it might be like to work in government at the national level. Last summer, that dream became reality when she returned to the nation’ s capital as an intern in the highly selective White House Office of Presidential Correspondence.
The experience gave Soud a front-row seat to democracy in action. She responded to constituent communications, participated in weekly professional development sessions with senior administration officials and took part in national events on the South Lawn. Most memorably, she had the opportunity to interact with the President.
“ Everything about the White House complex was stunning in its architectural beauty and
JU President Tim Cost praised Soud’ s ambition and determination.“ Emily is a big talent. She looks at what she thinks is going to be impactful and then asks how can I participate? Most students may not set their sights on something as ambitious as the White House, but she did and she succeeded.”
The program’ s rigorous selection process makes her achievement even more remarkable.“ It’ s arduous, it’ s rigorous, it goes on for months,” Cost explains.“ Round after round, you have to want to participate in something like this. To be selected is remarkable, and it lifts the entire university.”
The internship sharpened Soud’ s professional skills, from communication and time management to business etiquette and adaptability. Looking ahead, Soud remains focused on public service.
“ The White House Internship Program has strengthened my desire to work in government at the national level.” Her advice to fellow students:“ Don’ t be afraid to dream big.”
36 WAV E MAGAZINE | Spring 2026