The Indiana Senate offers paid, spring semester internships to college sophomores, juniors, seniors, graduate students and recent college graduates.

Senate interns work at the State House directly with Indiana State Senators throughout the entire legislative session, typically from late December through April. The internship provides a hands-on opportunity to gain practical knowledge of state government by actively participating in the legislative process.

Typical experiences include: 

• Learning the legislative process through active participation, gaining an in-depth understanding of how laws are made in Indiana.
   
• Observing legislators working together to build consensus and support for their initiatives.
   
• Working wth legislative staff to serve as advocates for constituents dealing with the complex system of state governmental agencies. 
   
• Researching past and present legislation.
   
• Assisting senators to prepare for committee meetings and session days.

Benefits consist of: 

• Earning a biweekly stipend of $700.  
   
• Receiving academic credit for completing the internship.
   
• Eligibility to apply for academic scholarships from Verizon Communications and the Rick Gudal Fund. 
   
• Building an impressive professional network and gaining valuable business references, assisting in the preparation for future employment. 
   
• Participating in on-going, professional development education.

Additional information: 

All majors are encouraged to apply and no previous political or government experience is required. Qualified applicants will have a strong academic record as well as demonstrate excellent writing and interpersonal communication skills. Additionally, successful candidates project a positive, professional attitude, are highly motivated and easily directed, and can effectively manage a rigorous workload in a fast-paced, often unpredictable work environment.

Specialized internships in senate communications and legal departments are also availabe. Qualified Communications Office applicants will have successful academic backgrounds and practical experience in a newsroom, agency, radio or television station setting. Eligible candidates for our legal internship with the Senate Attorney's Office must be at least a second year law student.

How to apply: 

• Complete an online application and submit the following: a resume, unofficial transcript, writing sample and at least two letters of recommendation.
   
• Submissions may be emailed to jcarlton@iga.in.gov or mailed to:
  Indiana Senate Internship Program
  State House, Room 126
  200 W. Washington Street
  Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
   
• Application deadline is October 31^st.
   
• Qualified candidates will be invited to the State House for a personal interview. Internships will be announced by early November.