Getting a foot in the door is the first step toward success.
After all, it’s not always what you know that matters.
Making early connections with those in the industry and learning
the ins and outs of the job can provide the necessary boost to
launch a successful career. Nowhere is that more apparent than in
politics. And nabbing that coveted internship for a state
representative, senator or governor can be the key.
Starting Out
The entire process appears to start with a well-written cover
letter highlighting the assets a student intern can bring to the
position, but it actually begins with building self-confidence.
Believing that you can tackle any job that is thrown at you leads
to a self-assured attitude, which can go a long way in a sea of
egos.
However, don’t dismiss the cover letter and resume as a simple
formality. They are a first impression, a way to stand out, and
they can make or break a candidate when it comes to the initial
selection process. Cover letters should be kept to one page, while
resumes should be no longer than two pages. Applicants are
typically asked to submit a writing sample as well.
Who can help?
Community colleges and universities usually have programs that
help students secure internships, and getting a reference from an
esteemed professor gives an outsider’s point of view of the
candidate’s capabilities.
Seeking assistance from those with inside knowledge is a good
idea.
What to expect
Interns can expect to pay their dues, plain and simple. It won’t
be the most glamorous job in the world, but it is a learning
experience that few encounter. Walking the halls of the capitol and
developing a relationship with Colorado’s top policymakers should
be considered a privilege.
What does it take?
To start off, a strong work ethic and desire to learn new
skills. Interns are crucial to everyday life at the capitol in
downtown Denver, and there is no exception for the governor. Gov.
John Hickenlooper has a team of aides busily shoring up the small,
but important details of school visits, speaking engagements and
other gubernatorial events that crowd his schedule.
The governor’s internship program is one of the best ways for
students to become directly involved in state government.
Day-to-day functions are more complicated than they might seem. The
application process also might seem daunting, but it is all in the
name of selecting the perfect candidate for the job.
Applicants must attend college or be a college graduate and
possess excellent writing and communication skills. They must also
commit to at least 16 hours of work per week at the governor’s
office, something that requiresgood time management for those with
a full school schedule. A “high degree of integrity” is also listed
under the requirements for participation at
http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/GovHickenlooper/CBON/1249674958014.
Lawmakers at the capitol expect punctuality, dependability and a
professional demeanor, thrusting those who might be accustomed to
less proper occasions into a new role. Basic computer skills and
the ability to work independently are desired. Of course, one of
the largest prerequisites is having an interest in public service
and the motivation to be part of a team environment, according to
the internship program web site.
Prospective interns should expect to divulge personal
information as part of the selection process. The application
includes questions about criminal history and educational
background, and solicits references to the student’s character.
Volunteer aides work closely with various boards and
commissions, the lieutenant governor’s office, the First Lady and
the governor’s economic recovery team. It is a crash course in
everything politics, however, an internship can be an invaluable
tool to take a step toward a career in public office or as a
communications director.
Starting a career and networking before earning a degree can
provide a leg up in a competitive job market. As the old saying
goes, the early bird gets the worm.
Find out more
Requirements for participation in the governor’s internship
program
http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/GovHickenlooper/CBON/1249674958014
Career and internship office for the State of Colorado
http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/OEDIT/OEDIT/1166809844791
How to write a good cover letter
http://jobstar.org/tools/resume/cletters.php
Contacts
Stephanie Dybsky, Career and Internship Office for the state,
303-892-3850
Jenna White, governor’s internship coordinator, 303-866-2471 or
jenna.white@state.co.us