Informational Meeting Set to Discuss Missouri Government Internship
An information meeting for the Spring 2017 Missouri Government Internship Program will take place at 4:30 p.m. Sept. 14 in Violette Hall 1412.
The Missouri Government Internship Program provides students with the opportunity to gain meaningful experience in the fast-paced world of state politics. Selected interns will work as full-time staff assistants with a legislator or state public official. By interning at the Missouri Capitol, students will expand their knowledge of state government, build a diversified professional network and establish a basis for future professional positions.
Last year, senior Kaitlyn Burke interned at the Missouri State Capitol during Spring 2016 for Sen. Jill Schupp. From that experience, Burke was hired for a full-time position with the Koster for Governor campaign.
“Networking was a huge part of the internship for me. My experience at the Capitol allowed me to meet hundreds of people that I otherwise wouldn’t have gotten to meet,” Burke said. “That networking turned into a campaign internship over the summer that ultimately became a full-time position.”
By participating in the Missouri Government Internship Program, Burke noted the invaluable opportunities she had that will continue throughout her career.
All majors are encouraged to apply. Emily Harrison, a junior agriculture business major, was an intern during Spring 2016 for Sen. Brian Munzlinger. As a student outside of the political science major, Harrison spoke highly of how the professional experiences and knowledge of being at the Capitol applied to her classes and academic future.
“I would recommend this internship for anyone and everyone that might have an interest in state government or has a desire to work hard and make serious connections,” she said. “This experience has not only changed my interests within the agriculture sector, but also my career path as a whole.”
The varying daily tasks throughout each office could include attending public hearings, completing legislative research, writing and editing published materials, constituent relations or assisting with basic office work.
Many former interns have subsequently taken positions as legislative directors, chiefs of staff, judicial clerks, policy analysts, lobbyists and public officials as a direct result of what they learned and the connections they made as interns.
The Truman State University Foundation provides selected interns with a stipend. Interested students should click here for more information and to view the internship application. Additional information will be presented at the meeting, Sept. 14. Questions can be directed to Candy Young or Heidi Templeton.
