Most University graduates hope to get a good job after college – but how many get one in the nation’s top office?

Recent University international affairs graduate Jheison Romain went from walking on campus to strolling the halls of the White House.

Romain is participating in the White House Internship Program, along with 120 other interns from colleges across the country.

Interns are divided into 15 separate offices in the White House.

“I work for the Office of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs,” Romain said in e-mail interview.

The office is responsible for building relationships with advocacy groups, non-governmental organizations and state officials.

The office also serves as a way for the public to relate to the White House, according to the White House Web site.

Romain is the lone participant in the program from the University.

He said he learned about the program after researching ways to get involved with the Obama administration.

“Shortly after the president was elected, I started looking for ways I could possibly help his administration. I actually applied a couple times before I was accepted into the program,” Romain said.

Romain began the three-month internship on Sept. 9, and since has found himself working in close proximity to President Barack Obama.

“A couple weeks ago I had the opportunity to assist at an event to promote the Olympics in 2016. This took place on the South Lawn of the White House,” he said. “At this event I got to be very close to the president and the first lady. I haven’t actually met them yet, and I don’t know if I will.”

But working alongside the diverse individuals who make up the White House is reward enough, Romain said.

“Having the opportunity to work with such intelligent and talented people is amazing. It isn’t easy working at the White House,” he said.

“Sometimes we work long days, but it is very satisfying to know that the work we’re doing is making an impact on peoples’ lives.”

However, politics may not be on the top of the list for possible careers for Romain. He said he would like to go into a career in public service and live in Washington, D.C., for now.

Washington may seem like a different world compared to life in Athens.

Romain said he does miss Athens, especially one particular time of the year.

“I definitely miss Athens. Especially being here in the fall, during football season, which is definitely my favorite time of the year,” Romain said. “Being away from friends and family is also difficult, but work keeps my mind occupied.”

He plans to return to school for his graduate degree after working in D.C. for a few years.