All placements are arranged by the Student Programs Office only. Effort is made to develop mutually satisfactory placements that provide in-depth experience and reliable performance. Placements are almost invariably to the office of an elected Member of the Senate, usually the Chairman or Ranking Member of a committee that is of interest or otherwise of potential value to the Fellow. As stated above, alternative placement is sometimes more appropriate or suitable, or may be described in other ways. In any event, placements are made effective based on the best available current information at the time the placement is considered and at the time of placement.
Fellows work alongside legislative staff during the fellowship year.
It is permissible for students to earn credit for fellowship participation, however. From the first day of the program, and during autumn when legislative activity moves at a slower pace, Student Programs Office conducts orientation and training activities , dependent upon cooperation and availability of Senate central staff, senior legislative staff, special guests. Fellows are released from their normal placement routines in order to participate in activities designed to provide Fellows with information and skills meant to help each Fellow contribute more ably during the busy legislative session, and to broaden the background of each as the fellowship year progresses. Especially following election periods , it is possible that a senators committee and other legislative responsibilities will change following the election. Interviews and Selection Historically, selection is advised by an Interview Committee.