Duties vary from one legislator to another, but generally include some research, communication with constituents, attendance at committee hearings, clerical and errand work, and more. Professor Straayer places the students with their legislative sponsors. The internship carries six upper division credits. Eligibility Students from all majors may apply. It is good to have some social science or political science course-work background but one need not be a political science major.
Preference is given to seniors and to students with good grade point averages.
Grading is by letter grade, plus-minus, and is based upon quality of the journal and paper, appraisal by the legislative sponsor, attendance at any meetings called by Professor Straayer on campus or in the Capitol, and reliability generally. Transportation Interns travel in university vans. Several students are needed as drivers. Without drivers there is no program. May. Students may continue through spring break but are not required to do so, so long as they are sure to inform their legislator that they will not be there.