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The opportunity to learn about the inner workings of Congress and the legislative process is within reach for college-age students from western Iowa.
Each term, young adults have the opportunity to work in my Washington, D.C. office as interns. It takes the right type of self-motivated young person to do well during an internship. I encourage interns who ask pertinent questions, learn firsthand from the legislative process, and completely take in all Washington has to offer.
In my office interns play a key role in day-to-day activities. These young people impress me with their willingness to help, interest in learning, and solid Midwestern values. Whether it comes from assisting legislative aides with research, talking with constituents on the phone, or running errands, interns gain knowledge and understanding of the greatest legislative body in the world.
You cannot walk the halls of the Capitol without hearing an intern point out the Brumidi Corridor, the portrait of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, or the spot where Abraham Lincoln sat during his service in Congress. It is an experience I hope every American citizen has a chance to appreciate. Giving Capitol Tours is one of the most important duties bestowed upon interns. Hundreds of western Iowans have enjoyed private tours of the Capitol given by interns and staff in my office.
I really enjoy seeing interns grow in appreciation of the history, process, and breadth of the federal government during their stay in Washington, D.C. After their internship they can describe how a committee hearing is run or how a bill becomes a law. Interns in my office get the opportunity to observe hearings and mark-ups, and consequently gain better understand the challenges of getting legislation passed.
Another important theme of internships I emphasize is civic responsibility. I want interns who are interested in making a positive difference not only in the long term, but also back on their college campus or communities. I stay in touch with past interns, several of whom are employed as my full-time staff.
The work day of an intern is varied. Interns may be asked to assist write letters, answer the phone, catalog newspaper articles, distribute mail, as well as attend various speakers and classes about the political process. The more active a student is, the better the internship.
The application process is now open for the Fall and Spring semester of the 2008-09 school year. Students from all fields of study are encouraged to apply. Students may earn college credit for their internship. If you know a young person whom you feel would be a positive representation of western Iowa, please encourage them to call my Washington, D.C. office for information about how to apply at (202)225-4426.
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