Washington State Legislative Intern Program

1. Washington State Legislative Intern Program

2. Students learn the legislative process and gain professional work experience while spending winter quarter or spring semester working in Olympia as staff for members of the Washington State House of Representatives or Senate.

3. Requirements • Junior or senior standing in any major • Attend a four year university or college in Washington state, or • A resident of Washington state attending college elsewhere • The internship must be taken for credit. Credit amounts and academic requirements are determined by the school.

4. The Legislative Internship is a full time commitment (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday) • Interns receive financial compensation • Interns attend 3 days of orientation prior to the beginning of the Legislative Session • Interns are placed in offices with similar interests and political philosophy whenever possible • Prior political experience is not necessary

5. The internship starts on the second Monday in January and runs for 60 days in even numbered years and 105 days in odd numbered years. Students on the quarter system have the option of staying for Spring Quarter during the 105-day session.

6. Intern Duties • Conduct legislative research • Attend committee hearings and legislative meetings • Correspond with constituents and state agencies • Track legislation • Draft letters, resolutions, talking points, press releases, and newsletters • Assist with daily office tasks • Participate in intern classes, workshops, and policy exercises

7. Workshops and Seminars In addition to their office duties, interns participate in hands on activities and educational opportunities. • Legislative Ethics • Developing the State Budget • Lobbyist Panel • Media Panel • Legislative Research • Mock Committee Hearing and Floor Debate • Job Shadow at a State Agency • Writing for the Legislature • Supreme Court Tour • Tour of Parliament in Victoria, British Columbia • Prison Tour • Bill and Amendment Writing • Budget Solving Exercise • Résumé Writing • Networking Opportunities • Professional Development • Agency Casework • Budget Balancing Exercise

8. A Good Candidate Has • Strong written and oral communication skills • Professional work ethic • Mature judgment and commitment to following all legislative ethics laws • Ability to handle a fast-paced environment • Good analytical and research skills

9. How to Apply • Complete the online application • Write a cover letter explaining how you meet the qualifications • Résumé • One-page essay responding to the question “How does the internship fit in with your educational and career goals?” • Two letters of recommendation: one from a faculty member and one from a personal reference

10. Selection Process • Applications are open from late August – mid-October • Applications are received jointly by the House and Senate • Selected candidates are interviewed in October and November by both House and Senate internship coordinators • Hiring decisions are made and applicants are notified by December 1st • Interns are placed with individual legislators’ offices after hiring decisions are complete

11. For More Information Emily McCartan Senate Intern Coordinator 360-786-7451 Emily.McCartan@leg.wa.gov Paula Rehwaldt House Intern Coordinator 360-786-7993 Paula.Rehwaldt@leg.wa.gov Or visit our website http://www.leg.wa.gov/internships