Many current members of Congress, and many Congressional staff
members, were once Congressional interns. Becoming an intern
could be a first step toward public service -- you never know
where it might lead.
In Washington there are internships available in the Spring, Fall,
and Summer. There is a possible stipend for internships in the Fall
and Spring. The three to four internships available in the Summer
are volunteer positions and no compensation is provided. However,
you do gain valuable experience as you assist staff with research,
letter-writing and office duties.
Interns have the opportunity to help the office in a number of areas.
They work with the legislative staff, assisting them with constituent
mail and research related to their individual legislative issues.
They also assist the Communications Director with all aspects of
media relations, which includes attending press events with the Congressman.
All Washington interns are also responsible for assisting with some
clerical duties.
Washington interns spend a semester (or summer session) living in the nation's
capital, working in the shadow of our national monuments. Few college
students ever have jobs offering the excitement and educational opportunities
that a Congressional internship can. It is hard work, but for those
not afraid of a challenge, there is nothing else like it.
Many students take advantage of the internships in the summer. With
many other interns in the Capitol, these students have a greater
opportunity to participate in special intern programs such as listening
to guest speakers and participating in seminars. Recent speakers
have included Vice President Dick Cheney, Secretary of State Colin
Powell, Majority Leader Tom Delay, and in her last visit to the Capitol,
Mother Teresa.
Interns often arrange with their universities to receive college
credit for their work in a Congressional office; many colleges offer
anywhere from 9-15 credit hours. Interns are responsible for their
own travel, housing and living costs. However, lower cost housing,
designed for interns, is available, and the extensive transportation
system in the area provides a safe and easy alternative for those
without a car in the city.
Opportunities for internships are not limited to Washington, DC.
The Tyler district office accepts volunteer interns who serve
on a part-time basis to assist with correspondence, casework and
other matters. Please contact the Tyler office at (866) 535-6302
or (903) 561-6349, for details on Texas internship opportunities.
If you
are interested in interning, please send me the following:
--A letter indicating where you are from, which office you would
like to intern in (District or Washington), and why you are interested
in interning.
--A copy of your resume.
--A copy of your most recent college transcript.
--Three letters of recommendation.
--Please fax Washington DC Office Applications to 202.226.1230 and District Office Applications to 903.561.7110.
You might also be interested in the scholarship programs offered
through The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars.
It is necessary to submit an application through them if you are
interested in being awarded a scholarship and the ability to earn
academic credit though your university while interning in Washington,
D.C. They have several different programs available. You may call
our office if you would like some information, or call them directly
at 1-800-486-8921. Be sure to let them know that you are from Texas.
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