Intern of the Week: Giovanna Orfali

Name: Giovanna Orfali

Pronouns: she/her

Semester of Internship: Spring 2025

Major: Visual Arts (Cinematic Arts Concentration) and Minor in Photography

Current Class Level: Senior

This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Cato Institute

Location of the Organization (City, State): Washington DC

Title of position: Media Production and Audiovisual Intern

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities: At the Cato Institute, I worked with the audiovisual team on a variety of multimedia projects. I learned how to operate the control room during live productions, including setting up cameras and managing the live switcher for debates and live streamed interviews and events. I also edited multi-camera interviews for Cato’s platforms. One of my main projects was producing, conducting interviews for, and editing the 2025 Thank You Paslaqua Family video. This documentary-style piece highlighted the impact of the internship program through intern stories and served to recognize the generosity of the Paslaqua Family while promoting the mission of the Cato Institute.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application? I heard about the position in October and applied in early November. In late November, they requested additional materials. I had an interview on December 9 and received a call the next day saying I had been accepted. I started working there in late January.

What resources did you use to find your current experience? To find my current experience Handshake.

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?

 Honestly, I loved everything about this experience. The team was incredibly friendly and patient, and they trusted me to work on live productions—which was so exciting. I still remember the adrenaline rush the first time I operated the live camera switcher. I learned a lot in the control room, especially because they use new, high-quality equipment. Their location is also very convenient. What stood out to me most was how communicative and organized they were—from the beginning of the application process to the very last day of my internship.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?

I think I made an impact by quickly stepping into a role with real responsibility. Being trusted to help with live productions and to fully produce a key video project on my own made me feel like I was truly contributing. I brought creativity, organization, and attention to detail—and I really believe that helped Cato present itself in a strong, professional way to both the public and donors. I also feel proud of helping communicate Cato’s mission through thoughtful video content. Whether I was editing policy discussions or working on the Thank You Paslaqua Family video, my goal was always to tell stories that resonate and highlight the work being done.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience? I would say: tailor your resume and go after what you’re genuinely curious about. Once you’re in the role, show your team how the experience is impacting you. Be open about how much you want to learn, don’t be afraid to ask for help, and if you have ideas—share them! Showing initiative and enthusiasm really makes a difference.

Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.

The Career Center helped me tailor my resume and better understand my goals, which allowed me to apply for positions that truly support my growth and help me work toward my future aspirations.