“I absolutely love the Hinckley Institute of Politics. I would definitely recommend any internship to any student in any major, but out of all three of my internships through the Hinckley, I thoroughly enjoyed my legislative internship at the Capitol the most. This internship has been the best experience in my college career. I’ve made many connections, friends, and have learned a lot about myself.”
–Michelle Doong, Representatives Chavez-Houck and Joel Brisco, Spring 2011
INTERNSHIP DATES
- SPRING SEMESTER
APPLICATION DEADLINE
- SEPTEMBER 14, 2012
UTAH LEGISLATURE
Hinckley Interns function as support staff to aid legislators during the Spring Semester of each year. An intern may be asked to track legislation, write speeches, attend committee meetings, research issues, and analyze bills. Hinckley Interns at the Utah state legislatures must adapt to a rigorous work schedule, take initiative in planning and organizing, and develop an effective working relationship with legislators.
Utah State Legislature
The Utah State Legislature Internship program offers students unparalleled access to the Utah legislative process. Interns serve as full-time assistants to legislators, lobbyists, and the media during the 45-day legislative session that begins on the fourth Monday in January. Legislative interns are not able to take other classes during this session due to a full-time work schedule. A scholarship of $2400 is provided to each legislative intern. State legislative interns represent the University of Utah and the Hinckley Institute of Politics, and therefore, the highest conduct is expected.
Utah State Legislature Preparation Course
State legislative interns are required to take the Legislative Intern Preparation Course (Political Science 3900) during the second session of the Fall Semester prior to their internship. The course is designed to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for an effective internship. The course is held once a week and is taught by Dr. Dan Jones of the University of Utah and Jerry Howe of the Utah State Legislature Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel.
- A scholarship of $2400 is provided to each legislative intern.
- Students must apply for 12 internship credits
- Current resume (Click here and here to see a resume example, and here for resume ideas) Also see more information on the University of Utah Career Services webpage by clicking here.
- 2-4 letters of recommendation (use the recommendation forms or formal letters of recommendation). One must be an academic reference.
- Statement of Purpose/Cover Letter (cover letter explaining why you would like to be an intern)
- 4-5 page writing sample (4-5 page excerpt of a research paper submitted for a class)
- Signed academic form
- Official University of Utah Transcript obtained from the Registrar’s Office (250 SSB).
