Internships

Internships in Political Science are similar to those offered in other programs. For answers to many questions about what an internship involves, how much of a time commitment is necessary, and what credit is available, see the PEA Web page discussion of internships: www.uwgb.edu/pea/internships/. Terri Johnson serves as the PEA internship coordinator, and she is also available to help students find an appropriate internship in Political Science.

Many kinds of internships are available for Political Science students, including work in political campaigns, political party offices, offices of public officials, nonprofit organizations, and interest groups active in the political process. Some students have arranged summer internships in Washington, D.C. and in other cities around the country. Because the possibilities are so varied, you should talk with a faculty member about what is best for you.

Those seeking an internship should be a junior or senior and have at least a 2.75 grade point average. You can make the initial contact for an internship on your own, or if you prefer we can do so.

Generally internships involve about 50 hours of field work for each credit, so about 150 hours for a three-credit internship; this is about 10 hours per week during a regular semester. The off-campus internship supervisor is expected to oversee your work and ensure that the position offers educational value and a good experience. A faculty member on campus supervises the internship, meets periodically with the student during the semester, reviews written work, and submits a grade. Interns normally complete an 8-10 page paper that evaluates their experience during the internship. Internships are graded based on the quality of a student’s performance and the quality of the final paper. The off-campus internship supervisor completes an evaluation form and submits it to the faculty supervisor.

Be sure to start your search for an internship early. For example, for many summer internships in Washington, D.C., you will want to begin looking no later than late fall. For a local internship, you should make inquiries well before the beginning of the semester.

If you are approaching an office, public official, or group on your own, you should prepare a cover letter and a resume. The letter should clearly state your interest in an internship and indicate what you can offer the organization. Your resume should highlight your academic experience and any other work that is pertinent. You might especially note any useful skills, such as familiarity with different computer software, knowledge of specific subjects, and so forth.