Get Involved
Consider an Internship
If government, politics, or commu- nity service appeals to you it might be worth looking into an internship with a local official whether elected or appointed. Some internships are paid but most are offered simply for the experience. A student may also sometimes earn course credit from their school for the internship experience. Evaluations of the student’s performance are generally required of the host agency by the school, unless done independently from the school. According to Marian Walsh, Esq., President and CEO, Operation ABLE *, a non-profit which helps people connect with jobs, these are the three most important steps you can take to increase your chances of landing the internship you want: Prepare a Resume It doesn’t have to be fancy. If you’ve had sum- mer or part time work note that along with any volunteer work you’ve done with your religious organization, or social groups, and the like. If you ever volunteered for a political campaign or led a group at school include that. Do you play a musical instrument? Or enjoy a school sports team? These activi- ties will identify you as an active, energetic person.
Research Your Desired Employer How long has he or she been in this current role? What are his or her priorities? If serving in the Legislature or City Council what com- mittees has this person served on. You want to confidently discuss the work you seek to help them with.
Most Importantly: Show Up in Person
Phone calls don’t often work as these offices are so busy dealing with constituents and legislation. But as Senator Walsh puts it, ‘Something happens when they see you in person. They recognize your sincere desire to work there, and they begin to think of how you might fit in.’ Be direct and say you’d like to help with their mission. For example, there’s always a need for someone to answer the phone and help with various constituent requests so you might offer to help with that. *Operation ABLE, Inc. provides job seekers with training in computer programs and employment services and assists with job place- ment and wrap around services.
Get Involved Something happens when [an employer] see[s] you in person. They recognize your sincere desire to work there, and they begin to think of how you might fit in. Marian Walsh Marian Walsh is an American author, consultant, lawyer and former politician. She is a former State Senator in the Massachusetts Senate where she served nine terms, and a former member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives where she served two terms. She also authored Run, a book about running for political office as well as started a campaign school at the Kennedy Library.
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Students Pocket Guide for Civic Engagement
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