Joel Larson

Utah Valley State College graduate Joel Larson ’06 was selected from dozens of Utah applicants to be an intern for U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) in Washington D.C. A 25-year-old Cedar Hills, Utah native, Joel graduated from UVSC in December 2006 with a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science with an emphasis in psychology.

 As an intern, Joel assists Hatch in his legislative work on telecommunication issues and immigration policy. Joel attends press conferences, hearings and committee meetings, and gives tours of Capitol Hill to constituents.

"The Capitol is great on the outside, but even better on the inside,” Joel said. “I love looking into the eyes of constituents as they learn about its history and revere its art and character.”

 Daily he is becoming more familiar with the inner workings of the Capitol.

“I have learned so much by being involved in the processes of our office, and knowing that what I do affects my state makes me strive even harder,” said Joel. “I didn't realize how detailed one day of work for a member of Congress was.”

Joel, who plans to earn master's degrees in social work and public administration from the University of Utah, credits UVSC with helping him find his career path.

"Going to UVSC helped open my mind and decide what I wanted in life,” Joel said. “The professors in behavioral science have been my friends and my mentors from the beginning. They have helped steer me in good directions.”