To broaden your experience and help you make the connection between theory and practice, you are required to take a four-credit seminar, Introduction to Public Administration in New York State Government. ASP interns can receive the equivalent of a full semester's credit for the combination of placement duties and a four-credit seminar provided by Empire State College's Northeast Center. Students are required to take either The Introduction to Public Administration or a Policy Analysis seminar. The program is offered during the fall, spring and summer terms. There is more quality control in a structured program, meaning better supervision and guidance at placements.
Students are able to reflect on their experiential learning.
The organized design encourages campuses to take a proactive interest in the student's academic activities, such as the requirement of a faculty sponsor. Most important, the structured internship program provides the opportunity for an intern to explore and discover in a real work environment, with the comfort of knowing that they are not alone on their continuing quest for knowledge. For students, the Albany Semester Program provides an invaluable opportunity to apply knowledge, observe and interpret state government activities, test potential career choices, develop or improve interpersonal abilities, utilize writing and communication skills, and perfect analytical capabilities, as well as to experience important personal growth. Interns meet with one another to discuss the internship and reflect on their learning experience. For agencies, ASP provides the opportunity to engage a bright, capable, and enthusiastic entry- level professional.