What can I expect to learn as an intern in the Governor's Office?
Career Exploration: Most applicants possess a commitment to public service and demonstrate an interest in the political and governmental processes. For those students as well as students that come into this program with other aspirations, this internship offers insights into:
- how state government operates;
- how the individual departments within the Governor's Office operate towards a common goal;
- and various paths within public service.
Students will be encouraged to attend topical legislative hearings and public events around the State House and the Commonwealth.
Skill Development: Through this program, students will develop professional skills that will be required in their future careers, no matter what path they take after leaving our office. Interns will enhance their ability to communicate in a professional manner; manage time and deliverables; and work in collaboration with colleagues in a fast-paced environment. Interns will be encouraged to take initiative on projects within their offices and develop leadership skills.
Is the internship paid?
Yes! This is a paid internship position; details are provided upon further inquiry. Should candidates need further aid, many candidates may find funding through alternate sources such as grants, and stipends provided by their schools. We encourage interns to speak to their career services departments to inquire about available options. We are happy to complete any paperwork or employer requirements associated with outside grants.
Are part-time positions available?
Yes, all our internships are part-time positions.
What is the time commitment for an internship in the Governor’s Office?
The time commitment during the academic year is 10-15 hours per week and 20 hours per week during the summer. Schedules will be determined individually between each intern and their office supervisor. An intern’s schedule must be consistent throughout the entire semester.
Is the Governor’s Internship Program open to graduate students?
Yes. The Governor’s Office Internship Program is open to all currently enrolled undergraduate, graduate, and associate degree college students. Additionally, some of the Executive Offices in the Healey-Driscoll Administration hire graduate students as interns. To the extent that we can facilitate a connection between a strong graduate student candidate and the appropriate Secretariat, we would be happy to do so. Law school students may apply for our internships in the Office of the Governor's Legal Counsel.
Are high school students eligible to apply?
No. The Governor’s Internship Program is designed for full-time undergraduate, graduate, or associate degree students who have completed at least one semester of college. Prospective high school applicants that are interested in an internship at the State House for the summer should visit the Secretary of State’s Tour Division, which does accept high school students on a full-time or part-time basis during the summer months. Students learn about the history, art, and architecture in the building, and also give tours to visitors.
What kind of writing sample is acceptable?
The writing sample should be a 2–3-page excerpt of something you have written. It does not have to be specific to the internship program.
Can letters of recommendations be sent separately?
Yes. Letters of recommendation will be accepted separately prior to the deadline. Sending recommendations with the required application materials (cover letter, resume, and writing sample) is preferred. The letters should be emailed to Olivia Rolnik: governor.internship@massmail.state.ma.us.
I attend school out-of-state, are phone interviews acceptable?
In-person interviews are preferred. For students studying out of state, in-person interviews when you are in Massachusetts on breaks will be accommodated when possible. If you know that you are going to be studying abroad, in-person interviews the semester before departure are also preferred to phone interviews. If none of those options are feasible, a phone interview may be arranged and will not impact your candidacy