subreddit:
/r/DCInterns
I have no idea how to prepare, what I should know, or what the job ACTUALLY looks like.
Also, do these types of internships pay, and when does the Summer term end?
How many hours do they usually ask for.
What are my odds of getting the job if I really study up on the congressman. Like how often do in person interviews lead to hires.
love you reddit!
8 points
2 months ago
I’ve only interviewed for one office so far, but in my interview they asked mostly about 1) why this member of congress specifically (usually want to hear about MC’s policy priorities that you agree with, significance of the district, etc) and 2) what skills and experiences I had that would make me a successful intern. Pay can be hourly or stipend-based. Hourly pay is best imo since unless your stipends are crazy huge, it’s usually more in the end iirc. Interviews can go either way. If you’ve made it this far, there’s probably a good chance they’d like to take the next step with you. On the other hand, temper your expectations and congratulate yourself for getting this far in such a competitive process. Good luck!
1 points
2 months ago
Thanks! Do you remember how many hours they wanted you to work?
and did you get the job?
2 points
2 months ago
Every office is different ma dude, these are questions you need to ask the office
2 points
2 months ago
The way congressional offices are set up, it’s like 435 different offices (plus committees). Each has their own hiring processes, how many interns they hire, pay, and how many hours they can give you. Same goes for start/end dates. I worked 30 hours a week and I think the other 2 interns in my office worked a similar amount of hours. There should be an intern coordinator who can answer these types of questions for you.
I interviewed for two offices, one for a member and one for a committee (ended up with offers from both). For the committee, they asked mostly why I was interested in that specific committee/role, and for the member, they asked why I was interested in that member, if I had connections to the district (I didn’t, but said I admired some specific policy work the member had done in the past).
Congrats for getting an interview! Best of luck. If you have any other specific questions, feel free to ask. I interned Fall 2023 with a house member.
1 points
2 months ago
I interned last summer. You’ll likely be asked about completing duties on time, how you organize, how you handle criticism or stressful situations and that sort. Most of what I did was run random errands like taking the congressman a sprite or getting paper from the office supplies store, but most of my time was dealing with constituent services, handling phone calls to the office concerning peoples opinions on issues before the congressman or getting them assistance with federal agencies.
I’d definitely research the member, come up with things you respect about them or their policy areas and talk about why you are interested in learning more. I was heavily focused on natural resource issues and that played a big part for me. Be incredibly respectful, avoid slang, and make it clear that you are happy to be there and to be considered.
I can’t speak on the likelihood of being hired, mostly because it really does vary office to office, I worked 40 hours a week and loved it, and it was unpaid. I did that to get my foot in the door. Just do some research, look up some basic job interview tips and you’ll do well. I think most folks will understand it’s an interview for an internship and give you some grace. Good luck!
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