Etowah Grad Tackles Legislative Internship

BY MARGARET MILLER

Remember the name Brooklin Cooper Cox. One day, this Kennesaw State University (KSU) junior may be the attorney general of Georgia, of the United States, or a justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Our readers can then say: “We aren’t surprised. We knew her when ...”

Determined, industrious and committed are characteristics used to describe this political science major. Brooklin recently completed a Georgia legislation internship at the state Capitol, which she described as very exciting. Among the offices in the building are those of the governor and lieutenant governor, plus the chambers for the General Assembly.

The Acworth resident said her responsibilities as an intern in the Georgia Senate involved researching bills and writing resolutions. She enjoyed the glamorous aspects, which allowed her to attend events with Gov. Brian Kemp, senators and other state dignitaries.

So, how did this Etowah High School graduate get this prestigious internship? “I was required to compete against hundreds of students from across our state,” Brooklin said. “I had to submit a lengthy essay and undergo three interviews, two of them at the Georgia State Capitol, before I became an intern.”

Approximately 35 students selected from Georgia’s public and private universities and colleges get firsthand experience during each legislative session. (Learn more at www.legis. ga.gov/intern-program.)

The application process was worthwhile, according to Brooklin. About her internship, she said: “This has been a life-changing experience. I have learned so much about how our state government works. Plus, I have always wanted to be involved in politics. My internship has confirmed that this is the career path for me, once I get my law degree.”

While completing her internship, the HOPE Scholar continued her regular studies in political science at KSU, an educational institution that she loves.

“I chose KSU after visiting several other colleges, including Penn State, (the University of) Alabama and Georgia State. I am pleased with my selection. KSU is a great school that has allowed me to grow as a student, to experience diversity, as well as to understand different aspects of governments.”

On weekends, Brooklin works as a server in a local eatery, where she is learning to be patient and is becoming knowledgeable about good customer service.

The importance of family support is something the rising senior is aware of, thanks to her parents, Lou Cox and Geri Cooper. “I have a very supportive family that pushes me to do my best. Before my maternal grandmother, Bertha Cooper, passed, she always told me I could be anything I wanted to be, and she supported my vision. I feel her presence today as I continue on my journey,” Brooklin said.

She credits local attorney Charles McGhee with mentoring her. He, too, encouraged her and offered her advice on how she can achieve her goal. She plans to complete her undergraduate degree in 2024 and then enter law school. Once she completes this part of her journey, watch out world, here she comes!