Ryan S. Bowley

How did you break into the profession? What made you choose that career path?
I benefited by getting my undergraduate degree here in Washington (American University). Being able to spend a few years here in the city, experiencing the environment, and working in Congress through a series of internships really got me excited about the opportunities that a career in politics and policy can bring. My interest in the political arena goes back to middle school when I volunteered on a few local campaigns, but I really found my home on the legislative/policy side of things.

What are some common misconceptions about your job?
That the LD is far above the rest of the office's legislative staff. Our office works so well because we work as a great team — with everyone providing advice and guidance all across the process. As for misconceptions about advocacy, at least from my perspective I would say the biggest misconception is that successful advocates are the ones who put the most pressure on someone. If anything, the complete opposite is true. The advocates who build the relationship before the ask, who have a good sound case for the ask, and who don't walk away after something comes to a conclusion are the successful ones. Folks who come in and try and twist arms are the ones who reap the least success.

Do you have any anecdotes or funny stories about things that have happened in your professional life?
Lots of funny reenactments — making fun of the ridiculous is one of the things that keeps me going. One of the best anecdotes happened when I worked for a Pennsylvania member, and Congress was in session on a Sunday before Thanksgiving. The Steelers were playing that afternoon before Congress was in session, and almost the entire PA delegation and their staffs were down at the Top of the Hill watching the game. It was a politically tense period, but it was great to just unwind with everyone.

What is the importance of integrity and trust in your day-to-day work interactions?
Extremely important, and without those two aspects, nothing would ever happen here in DC. I think that is one of the things that the popular press misses about the interactions between the Hill and folks who come in regarding an issue. When I work an issue, its not only my name going out there, but it's my boss' as well, and that is a critical point that no one can forget when they come up to the Hill.

How did being a Bryce Harlow Scholar (scholarship, connections, mentoring, etc.) assist in your graduate studies; in the professional world?
Being a Scholar has been a fantastic experience. I received the scholarship in 2003, and not only did the funds help with my studies, but the Foundation, from Linda on down, has been extremely helpful and supportive. From advice on my career to having someone to talk with that has been around here for years, the role that the Foundation plays in my professional life today cannot be overstated.

What is some advice that you can offer students just starting out on their careers in advocacy? What did you wish you would have known? What should they make sure to learn?
Understand the process — it is very frustrating working with folks off the Hill who are short on their process understanding. As such, I would encourage you to spend some time up here — either as a staffer or at least as an intern. Work on actually building relationships outside of any ask you can ever make. The worst advocates are the ones who come up to the Hill at the beginning of the year, every year — there is a reason why they don't get anywhere. Also, understand the importance of learning not just by doing, but by watching. Be eager, but also know how to pace yourself.

What do you like about living in DC? What are your favorite things to do; things that shouldn't be missed?
I love the nature of the town. I grew up in a small town in the middle of nowhere up in Pennsylvania. DC still has a lot of that small town feel, but you have so much available to do and experience. My favorite thing to do in town is to go down to the Mall on the evening of July 3rd and ride my bike around all the tents and tourists. I try and do it every year.