William Heins, ’27, fondly remembers watching spy thrillers with his family as a child. The over-the-top action movies offered more than just entertainment—they left Heins with the desire to protect his country. Inspired by a family history of military service stretching back to the Revolutionary War, Heins has found his calling as an intelligence and security studies and criminal justice double major who is pursuing every opportunity to make his dream a reality.
The Tennessee native spent the spring semester in Washington, D.C., juggling two internships—one with the U.S. Marshals Service, and one in the House of Representatives working for Representative Andy Ogles of Tennessee.
For Heins, seeing intelligence in action was transformative. “I’ve observed court security procedures, learned about the protective intelligence process for federal judges, and had the opportunity to take part in carrying out security protocols,” said Heins. “I’m learning how to practically implement everything that I’ve learned in the classroom.”
Heins, who aspires to a career in intelligence and national security, was fascinated by this inside look at the federal criminal justice system. “No matter how small a task you’re doing, you know it counts towards something,” said Heins.
Serving in Congressman Ogles’ office was equally rewarding for the rising junior. “He was my county mayor before he was my congressman,” said Heins. “I feel like I’m at a home away from home.” Heins gained experience in behind-the-scenes communications as well as the law-making side of the political process, doing everything from taking calls to interfacing with other congressional offices and helping draft bills.
“Not only am I learning how to implement these ideas that I’ve learned about in class, but I’m also learning how to communicate about them,” said Heins. “It’s incredible in the sense that it’s real. The people I’m talking to and working with are real, and the problems that I’m solving are real. I’m learning how to succeed, and I’m learning how to recover from failure.”
Heins’ cadet career has taken him from the capital of the United States to the capital of Scotland, where he performed in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo as a member of the Regimental Band and Pipes—showcasing not only his dedication to broadening his experiences but also his pride in representing The Citadel at home and abroad.