Every year, U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers welcomes a select group of college students for internships in the Congressional office in Washington, D.C. One of the first interns to join Rogers this summer is Addison Thompson, a Somerset High School graduate who completed his sophomore year at the University of Kentucky earlier this month.

"I always enjoy working with college students from home in the Washington, D.C. office, and helping them pursue their endeavors while getting an inside look at daily congressional operations," said Rogers. "I commend Addison for planning to return to his hometown after graduating from college, so he can use his talents to help make our region a better place to live. It has always been my dream to stop exporting our brightest young minds away from home. We need the skills and innovation of students like Addison to help us shape the future of southern and eastern Kentucky."

Addison is majoring in Economics with a minor in Political Science. After earning his bachelor's degree, he plans to pursue a Juris Doctorate degree and return home to Somerset to practice law with his father. Addison is a member of the Junior Interfraternity Council, Secretary for UKY Ducks Unlimited, serves as a recruitment committee member for Alpha Tau Omega, and helped his fraternity raise money for the Make-A-Wish foundation this year. His parents are Roberta and Bill Thompson of Somerset. 

"Being involved in Congressman Rogers’ office is a thrill, because of how much he has accomplished throughout southern and eastern Kentucky," said Thompson. "I not only believe this internship will help me develop as a prospective lawyer, but also as a U.S. Citizen. Branching out into a higher-level political atmosphere will better prepare me for the work I would like to do at some point throughout my career."  

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information, visit Congressman Rogers' online office at http://halrogers.house.gov or follow him on Twitter or Instagram @RepHalRogers, and on Facebook.

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