School to Career - State Senate Staff - Chief of Staff


		How I Got The Job
		Typical Day

As Chief of Staff for Senator Skelos, Tracy R. Lloyd is directly responsible for the day-to-day operations of the senator’s Albany office as it relates to legislative and budgeting activities. He is involved in both short and long term plans to meet the needs of committee chairpersons and the Ninth Senate District, which Senator Skelos represents. In addition, he oversees the senator’s office in Rockville Center, Long Island.

Becoming The "Chief"

In his fourth and final year at Plattsburgh State University, in New York, where Tracy received his B.A. in Political Science, he did a six month internship with a New York State assemblyman. It was after the internship, and graduation, that Tracy was offered a full time position on the Assemblyman’s staff. After honing his skills in politics, he interviewed for an office manager position for Senator Skelos, whom he did not know at the time. He landed the job and pretty soon he knew the Senator very well.

Although he was always interested in politics, Tracy credits the internship with helping him make the decision to pursue it as a career. “College piqued my interest in politics, but the internship confirmed my interest,” he explains, recommending that students pursue internships as a means of on-the-job training and a way of determining such a career is something that they would enjoy.

Plenty of Opportunity To Multi-Task

When asked how many hours he puts in during the average week, Tracy quips "too many". Forty to fifty hours are not uncommon, particularly when the senate is in session. Many of those hours are spent in meetings or on conference calls with committee members, staffers and of course meeting with Senator Skelos. Scheduling upcoming activities and answering numerous phone calls and emails are also an ongoing part of the job. "Multi tasking is necessary," says Tracy, adding that communication skills, both verbal and written are essential, the art of diplomacy is a must and negotiating skills and the ability to give and take must also be acquired.

A Rewarding Experience

"I have been personally involved in many very worthwhile projects and new laws," says the Chief of Staff, noting that Megan’s Law has probably been the most notable. The law requires that all sexual predators register their whereabouts upon release into the community, so that it becomes public knowledge. "Seeing that the law works and how it is now such a valuable tool for parents and organizations is very gratifying," adds Tracy. Tracy’s advice for anyone considering politics is to start by getting involved as a volunteer for a local state office holder. "Many officials look for young volunteers to get involved... many offer college credits. However, you should try it out before committing to it."