Internships With Senator Cornyn:
The Senate Intern program is a tradition that has been part of the United States Congress for many years. In the Senate, interns provide a valuable service that not only renders substantial assistance to Senators and staff, but often enables them to personally assist the citizens of their state in a variety of ways. In return, interns gain a unique insight into how government works and a behind-the-scenes look at the legislative process.
In Senator Cornyn's offices, interns take on tasks such as answering phones, processing mail and running errands, while also working on research projects, attending hearings and press conferences, conducting tours of the U.S. Capitol, and personally responding to constituent inquiries.
Through their experience in the Cornyn offices, interns leave with a greater understanding of the meaning of democracy, a new appreciation of the value of liberty and a deeper love for their country and their State than when they arrived. This is an exciting time in the history of our nation and in the Senator's offices. Much of the debate about issues that will shape our future is taking place within the halls of Congress, and interns who serve with us get to watch it all from a front row seat.
Service as an unpaid intern is available in Spring, Summer, and Fall sessions in Senator Cornyn's D.C. office as well as his seven district offices located in Austin, Dallas, Harlingen, Houston, Lubbock, San Antonio and Tyler.
2009-2010 Intern Sessions and Deadlines:
All materials must be submitted by the following deadlines before your application will be considered:
Summer 2009 (Session I): May 26 – July 3
Application Deadline: April 10
Summer 2009 (Session II): July 6 – August 14
Application Deadline: April 10
Fall 2009: August 31 – December 18 Application Deadline: July 17
Spring 2010: TBD Application Deadline: TBD
Application Requirements:
All students who apply must have graduated from high school, completed at least one semester of college classes, or have at least one semester of course work remaining before they obtain their undergraduate degree. Graduate students or post graduates do not qualify for the internship program.
Our office recognizes the unpredictable nature of academic schedules. However, Washington, D.C. interns are expected to work FORTY hours per week in Summer Sessions, and THIRTY hours a week in Spring and Fall sessions. State office hours are scheduled according to academic availability. While semester-long internships are preferred for the Spring and Fall Sessions, our office is flexible and willing to accommodate you if there is a conflict. Please plan on working a minimum of SIX consecutive weeks during the Summer Session.
Complete the application below in one of the following formats;
Resume (please include anticipated date of graduation)
Official copy of college transcript;
Essay: Which of Senator Cornyn's policy stances or professional developments inspires you and why?
The essay should be typed, between 800 and 1000 words in length, and double-spaced in 12 point font.
Two letters of recommendation.
Students may send their application materials to:
The Honorable John Cornyn
United States Senator
ATTN: Internship Coordinator
221 West 6th Street, Suite 1530
Austin, TX 78701
* Fax: (512) 469-6020
Please be aware that security measures at the Capitol significantly delay mail. If you send your application within two weeks of the deadline, it is strongly encouraged that you fax your application.
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