Develop skills, make connections, and experience the legislative process firsthand
By Janea Byrne
Have you ever thought about a career in public service? Are you interested in learning more about the legislative process and working alongside professionals to support the creation of public policy? Then the Arizona State Legislative Internship Program is for you!
The Arizona Legislative Internship Program is an opportunity for NAU students of all majors to gain experience in research, writing, and public speaking, while actively participating in the democratic process during the Legislative Session each spring.
Don’t have prior experience or knowledge of the legislative process? Don’t worry! This internship is open to all backgrounds and majors. You do NOT need previous knowledge of the legislative process in order to apply.
“Don’t let inexperience or lack of political knowledge intimidate you. A sincere interest and willingness to learn will be enough for you to succeed in the internship. If you’re thinking about it, just go for it! It’s an amazing opportunity.” – Former NAU Intern Shirley Springer, House of Representatives
Interns are selected for positions with the Arizona State Senate, the Arizona State House of Representatives, the Arizona State Governor’s Office, or the Arizona State Supreme Court. Selected broadcast interns join the Arizona Capitol Television team.
I’m interested…tell me more!
In addition to the experience, Legislative Interns will receive a stipend of $5,000, a tuition/fee waiver, and earn 12 hours of undergraduate upper-division credit or 9 hours of graduate credit upon successful completion of the internship.
Those selected for the Arizona Legislative Internship Program will work full-time in Phoenix during the Legislative Session from January through May. Students from outside of Maricopa County will receive a moving allowance of $1,000.
“In week one, thirteen interns and myself were seated in a white room and given more information than I expected to learn throughout the semester. I imagined grabbing coffee for higher-ups, making copies and not much else; I could not have been more mistaken. This internship allowed me to gain skills such as public speaking, research, writing, patience and a true understanding of the legislative branch – these all were key in succeeding in everyday work in the people’s House.” – Former NAU Intern Adrienne Austill, House of Representatives
Sound like it might be a fit for you? Descriptions of the different positions within each office or agency as well as the applications can be found online.
You can also learn more about what it’s like to be an intern by checking out these blog posts from former interns!
Ready to apply?
You’ll need two letters of recommendation, so now is the time to start asking your professional and academic references. Check out these tips to get the best recommendation letter.
Application materials for the Legislative and Broadcast internships must be submitted via Handshake. This includes a completed application, an unofficial transcript, two signed letters of recommendation, and a current resume.
Click here to apply via Handshake.
Important dates
Legislative Internship applications are due by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 25.
Broadcast Internship applications for Arizona Capitol Television are due by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 16.
Questions? Contact career@nau.edu.
Interested in exploring other internship opportunities? NAU Career Development can help! Check out the online Career Steps lesson to learn more about strategies for Finding an Internship. You can also schedule a one-on-one Internship & Exploration Resources appointment with one of our team members via Handshake.