On the court, the Brandeis women's basketball team is off to its best start in 15 years, with a 6-0 record. Senior Katherine Vaughan has been flourishing, averaging 9.7 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. As the Judges' all-time blocks leader, her 2.2 blocks per game lead the University Athletic Association. Off the court, Vaughan has been gaining important experience for life after Brandeis, interning at the Massachusetts State House this past summer. 

As a psychology major with minors in business and legal studies, Vaughan was drawn to the Massachusetts State House because of her interest in public policy and the legislative process. She had the opportunity to work with Representative Kenneth I. Gordon, who represents the 5th Congressional District, which includes her hometown of Bedford.  

"I felt as though I had ideas and passions that aligned with his work in the Education Committee," said Vaughan. Her biggest project was her final policy proposal focusing on the post-conviction process after wrongful convictions, specifically with junk science, or faulty forensic evidence used in cases. She realised that there was no specific legislation in Massachusetts that brought relief to convicts who were impacted by a lack of legitimate evidence. This stemmed from the course she took at Brandeis called "Science on Trial," taught by Professor Daniel Breen. 

For Vaughan, a day in the life consisted of going to Rep. Gordon's office, where she would meet with intern coordinators and legislative aides. She also got to experience a daily speaker series, where lobbyists, legislators, and others gave lectures on their current work and experiences in public service. In between those events, she was working on her policy proposal and meeting with Rep. Gordon. Some of her favorite moments included a lecture from Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey and going to the anniversary celebration of the Common Start legislation, which aims to provide accessible and affordable childhood care and education.   

One of the most surprising, yet valuable parts of Vaughan's internship was seeing the relationships between staff members and interns. "As an intern, it can sometimes feel like your position is less significant, but I truly felt as though the legislators and staffers enjoyed the internship program," said Vaughan. She enjoyed making connections, hearing their stories, and learned that "a career in public service does not necessarily have a clear-cut path."

 Her work experience goes hand-in-hand with her efforts playing for the Judges, and those around her have seen her passion. Women's basketball head coach Julie Pritchett says, "Her dedication is unmatched, and it's clearly reflected in her success on the court." Pritchett highlighted her strong leadership as a tri-captain and her drive off the court as well.

 Teammate Abby Kennedy describes Vaughan as an amazing leader who is extremely disciplined and manages her time well, balancing basketball while preparing for her future in law. Kennedy also spoke about how Vaughan shows her love for law, saying, "She'll bring up questions about fairness, policy, and how the system impacts different people." 

Both also praised Vaughan for how she holds others accountable, showing that she holds many values that are deeply connected to her summer internship. Bringing justice to those who have been affected by faulty evidence and making the justice system fairer is something Vaughan is extremely passionate about. As she begins her final season of basketball, she looks forward to graduation and law school, eager to take her next steps in public service.