The California State Assembly Internship Program offers college students a unique opportunity to participate in and experience the work of a state assembly office. The program exposes students to district and capitol office operations.
Capitol Internship:
Legislative interns are a key part of our Capitol office. Interns support the legislative and administrative work of the Capitol staff in order to advance the Assemblymember’s policy goals and district agenda. Intern responsibilities include communicating with constituents, assisting staffers with their legislative duties, clerical work, conducting research, writing letters, and drafting briefing materials and talking points.
District Internship:
One of the most important roles of a district office is to keep the local community connected with the legislative work taking place in Sacramento. This is accomplished through community based events, constituent casework, correspondence and everyday involvement with the community of the 51st Assembly District. As an intern you will provide support to District and Capitol staff with special events, constituent services and inquiries, and special projects related to general administrative duties of the district office.
Qualifications/Essential Duties:
The ideal candidate must be in or have graduated from an undergraduate or community college program. The ideal candidate has/had a major in Political Science, Journalism, History, International Relations, Public Policy, Economics, English, Communications, Public Relations, or other similar major; however, all majors are welcome to apply. Additionally, the following qualifications are critical:
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to work with minimal supervision
- Critical thinking and creative problem solving
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and competing deadlines simultaneously
- Proficiency in using Microsoft Word and Excel
- Fluency in Spanish is beneficial
Benefits:
Although unpaid, interns receive important and lasting benefits such as an extensive understanding of legislative processes, strengthened research skills, networking and professional development gained by working directly with elected officials, community leaders, and local residents on issues and events related to the 51st Assembly District and the State of California. Staff plays an involved role in mentoring and supporting our interns pursuing careers in the public service sector. Interns have the opportunity to earn a letter of recommendation from the Assemblymember and may also qualify for internship credit from their university or college.
Many legislators and senior policy staff began their careers by interning in a district office. It is an invaluable way to gain a true understanding of California’s democratic process, as well as an excellent opportunity to make important contacts while serving the community.
Interns will gain valuable education and work experience by fully participating in agreed-upon hours of work. All internship work is voluntary and students will not receive any monetary compensation.
As space becomes available, qualified candidates will be invited for an interview. Thank you for your interest in this unique opportunity to serve Assembly District 51.
Sincerely,
Wendy Carrillo
Assemblymember, 52nd District