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Did you do any internships while majoring in political science If so, how did you find them, and what was the experience like? #Spring25?

I'm currently attending college for Political Science and was hoping to get an understanding on what I should do to get a footing in the field.

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Layne’s Answer

Great question, Monae. I was a Political Science Major and later held elected office. A political science major is flexible and students often do internships that are not necessarily in politics. Political science majors will do internships in political offices, lobbying groups, consulting firms, government contractors, and other organizations that work with the government at the city, state, and federal level. Likewise, many political science majors may intern in legal fields, as there is a lot of overlap in political science and the law. The best first step is to decide what aspect of political science that interests you most. If you are interested in political representation, contact your local, state, or US representative's office for internship opportunities. If you are interested in specific areas of interest, such as environmentalism, find an organization that works with the government in that capacity. Likewise, there are many consulting and contracting firms that support all aspects of government with a variety of jobs that would give you exposure to how government operates.

Layne recommends the following next steps:

Reflect on what area you are most interested in
Contact agencies that work in your area of interest
Be open to learning, a political science major is more broadly applicable than you think
Thank you comment icon I appreciate this, thank you for the advice. Monae
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Jerry’s Answer

I majored in Political Science and, significantly, minored in history. Advanced degrees in Political Science, and stood in front of assorted classrooms for thirty-eight years.

Never did an internship, nor was offered one.

But getting involved in a local political group, discussing issues, and perhaps campaigning for the candidate of one's choice is an option many take.

Or getting involved with a political party. Probably begin as a gofer, and move on up and get more and more involved.

Then many colleges and universities have politically orientated clubs and groups that offer many divergent points of view.

And the media, most specifically newspapers as they tend to give indepth detail of current political events, and then there is the OpEd section to challenge one's thoughts.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, I will look into local groups to start off! Monae
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Katie’s Answer

I got an internship as a Poli Sci major at the White House and honestly I just applied to all the federal agencies. I think it is understanding what you want to do in politics. Love Layne's answer of working with local communities and organizations. I've worked with local associations that lobby for groups as well as local politics such as city councils and state government. There are so many opportunities it is figuring out where you want to be and then going towards that group.
Thank you comment icon Katie, thank you! Monae
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