The close-knit group of staffers working for Rep. Michael G. Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) has created the sort of rare office atmosphere that allows aides to offer input on major issues. When meeting in the office, Fitzpatrick and his staff openly discuss pressing legislation such as threatened farmland in Bucks County and veterans’ rights.

Greg Calhoun, 26, the new legislative director, said Fitzpatrick expected him to offer ideas, particularly on financial matters. Fitzpatrick sits on the House Financial Services Committee, and Calhoun uses his economics major from the University of Richmond to assist his boss.

As a former legislative assistant, Calhoun visited the New York Stock Exchange with the Financial Services Committee when insider-trading legislation was being drafted in the House.

Calhoun is an MBA candidate at George Washington University. When he has free time, he says, he hangs out with his girlfriend and watches Philadelphia Eagles football games.

For Jeff Urbanchuk, 28, the new communications director, Fitzpatrick’s open and encouraging atmosphere has allowed the staff to become a team. This came, he said, despite each staff member’s coming from another representative’s office with varying levels of experience.

Urbanchuk studied political science at Penn State University and went on to earn a master’s degree in political management from George Washington University.

Urbanchuk fits in Penn State football games and sailing.

As the new legislative correspondent, Elizabeth Beckert, 23, makes it her business to help the constituents of the district. A former staff assistant, Beckert is a Philadelphia native and graduated with a psychology major from Dickinson College.

In her spare time, like many of her co-workers, Becker enjoys running in D.C. parks. Sometimes, she socializes with co-workers for a drink. Beckert enjoys reading a variety of fiction.

In staff meetings, Juliana Totaro, 22, offers her assistance on legislation and other upcoming events to staff members. She also recounts the latest tour information. Totaro, 22, began working as Fitzpatrick’s intern in June and has since been hired as a staff assistant. She graduated from American University with a degree in television and film production.

On the weekends, she listens to bands with friends in Georgetown. Totaro will occasionally gather with staff members from other Pennsylvania representative offices for a night out. Next year, she plans to attend law school at night while keeping her position as staff assistant during the day.