Meet The 2025 Summer Interns

We are proud to welcome our 2025 Summer Interns from The Fund for American Studies (TFAS) program:

Max Pohlenz, Pepperdine

A Chicago suburbs native, Maximilian Pohlenz grew up relying on and using local rail systems such as the Metra and the Chicago “L.” He has just finished his third year at Pepperdine University, where he is pursuing a degree in Chemistry with minors in Journalism and Great Books. Max brings with him experience in informational writing, including presenting academic literature and research in an approachable manner. As a trained chemist, Max is equipped with a background in analytical reasoning and thinking. He has previously provided administrative assistance at Luetkehans, Brady, Garner and Armstrong, an Illinois-based law firm which works with the DuPage Airport Authority, as well as several other clients. As assistant editor of Currents magazine, he provided both top-down insight and award-winning journalism.

Max is the oldest of three brothers and was raised alongside two labradors. In his free time, he enjoys reading sci-fi novels, rock climbing and cooking for himself. Max looks forward to communicating the notable research done by the Rail Passengers Association and its partners in digestible formats for its members and other interested groups. He also is excited at the prospect of collaborating with his fellow interns in advocating for a more accessible American passenger rail.

Rifqa Kadhim, North Carolina State

My name is Rifqa Kadhim, and I am thrilled by the chance to help elevate every mile our passengers travel with the Rail Passengers Association. Trains have always been more than steel, schedules, and stations—they are moving communities that stitch together cities, cultures, and histories. My commitment is to revive that spirit by championing routes that are not only more frequent and farther-reaching but also genuinely affordable, so families, students, and travelers of every background can choose rail without hesitation.

I believe the original promise of America’s railways—making daily life easier while turning the journey itself into a memorable experience—remains as powerful today as it was a century ago. From shaping data-driven policy to amplifying grassroots advocacy, and from improving on-board amenities to smoothing the last mile between the platform and each rider’s destination, I am eager to serve wherever impact is greatest. My goal is simple: ensure that stepping onto a train means entering a welcoming, reliable space where stunning landscapes pass by the window and passengers feel both cared for and empowered.

It is an honor to join an organization with such a storied legacy. Together, we can safeguard accessibility and affordability not only for today’s travelers but for those who will ride in the decades ahead—proving that rail can remain the most connective, sustainable, and inspiring way to see our country.

Max Middleton, Ohio State

Hi! My name is Maxwell Middleton, and I recently graduated last month from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Political Science, with a specialization in Law and Democracy. As far as my career goes, I would love to do more work in relations and public policy. As a 22-year-old, I’m still learning, but I am passionate about public service and bringing economic prosperity to underprivileged communities. I’m originally from Ellicott City, Maryland, a suburb west of Baltimore. I was fortunate enough to get accepted into the TFAS program and is a big reason why I received the position at RPA. In comparison to other internship interviews, the RPA stuck out like a sore thumb. Jonsie and Joe couldn’t have been more kind, yet upfront about what they wanted as an intern. This is both an extremely exciting and nerve-wracking summer for myself, trying to figure out jobs, school, career, etc., but I can already tell that I have surrounded myself with diligent, hard-working Americans at RPA and I couldn’t be happier.