Applying for Internships
Many Members of Congress and their staff were once Congressional interns. Becoming an intern could be a first step toward public service -- you never know where it might lead.
Washington, DC interns spend a semester or summer session living in the nation's capital, working in the shadow of our national monuments. Few college students ever have jobs offering the excitement and educational opportunities that a Congressional internship can. It is hard work, but for those not afraid of a challenge, there is nothing else like it. Students and recent graduates interested in applying should direct all questions to the Washington, DC office at (202) 225-3035.
Interns have the opportunity to help the office in a number of areas by working with the legislative staff, assisting the staff with constituent mail and research related to their individual legislative issues. They also assist the communications coordinator with all aspects of media relations, which includes attending press events with the Congressman. All Washington, DC interns are also responsible for assisting with some clerical duties.
Interns often arrange with their universities to receive college credit for their work in a Congressional office; many colleges offer anywhere from 9-15 credit hours. Interns are responsible for their own travel, housing and living costs. However, lower cost housing, designed for interns, is available, and the extensive transportation system in the area provides a safe and easy alternative for those without a car in the city.
Opportunities for internships are not limited to Washington, DC. The Tyler district office accepts college-aged interns residing within my congressional district who serve on a part-time basis to assist with correspondence, casework and other matters. Current college students interested in applying for an internship in my district office should call toll-free (866)535-6302 or (903)561-6349 for details on Texas intership opportunities.
Deadlines for Internships:
- For Spring 2017, the deadline to apply is October 30, 2016
- For Summer 2017, the deadline to apply is March 26, 2017
- For Fall 2017, the deadline to apply is July 16, 2017
- For Spring 2018, the deadline to apply is October 29, 2017
If you are interested in interning, please send the below items and fill out our internship form to notify us of your interest:
- A letter indicating where you are from, which office you would like to intern in (Tyler or Washington, DC), and why you are interested in interning.
- Resume.
- A copy of your most recent college transcript.
- Three letters of recommendation.
Please e-mail applications to Duncan Rankin in the Washington, DC Office at duncan.rankin@mail.house.gov.
You might also be interested in the scholarship programs offered through The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars. It is necessary to submit an application through them if you are interested in being awarded a scholarship and the ability to earn academic credit though your university while interning in Washington, DC. They have several different programs available. You may call them directly at (800)486-8921, and be sure to let them know that you are from Texas.
