Here are some actual accounts of student's experiences in their state legislative interships.
My semester as an Assembly intern was extremely positive. I would highly recommend this program to any serious student looking for an intense experience in the legislative process. The skills and lessons I developed were far beyond what one can get in any classroom. Some of my responsibilities in a typical day included bill tracking/research, meetings with constituent groups, going through the mail, writing letters, preparing the Member's bill calendar for session, answering phones, attending meetings/receptions on behalf of the Member, and MUCH more. Each intern's responsibilities vary, depending on your own initiative, and the office dynamic. I recommend doing some research on the Assembly website before you apply, and picking out an Assemblymember who deals with policy areas you are interested in.
3 months later "I'm writing to you from my desk at the
Massachusetts Restaurant Association! It took me all summer to find the right
position, but I finally ended up here. My primary responsibilities are to handle
the state legislative issues that impact the restaurant industry. I'll also
be working closely with regulatory agencies like the Department of Public Health.
I have to admit, that my internship at the Assembly was the perfect training
for my job. Thank god all that driving back and forth to Albany has paid off!
I don't think I could have landed this job if it weren't for that experience.
"
Greg Thall, Spring 2001
In the Spring semester of 2001 I had the opportunity to intern with the New
York State Assembly in Albany. It was the most rewarding semester I have spent
at Skidmore. I was able to shape policy decisions and law in this state. Once
I arrived in Albany I was put right to work. I quickly learned that I was
needed to play an important role in the office. I was needed to do anything
and everything. I did everything from meeting with constituents and special
interests groups to drafting legislation. I worked closely with the member and
the office staff both in district and in Albany. I was able to meet Hillary
Clinton, the Governor and the candidates who are running for the office this
fall, and interact with them as a member of the political community. It was
an incredible experience that illustrated how the principles of the founders
of this country have been interpreted and changed in running our form
of federalism. (Greg also was the legislative champion of a law
requiring all New York defensive driving courses to include a session on road
rage that was mentioned in the New York Times, see here).
Lauren Berenson, Spring 2001
As a part-time intern for the New York State Assembly, I worked two days per
week for a total of twelve hours. My duties at the Assembly varied. However,
the bulk of my work consisted of corresponding to constituents, sitting in on
meetings, going to the Assembly floor, and helping out with administrative work.
The team that I worked with was very helpful and willing to answer any questions
I had about legislative activity or anything else that was going on in the office.
Working at the New York State Assembly was a great way for me to get involved
in the legislative process and see how it works up close.
Here is Greg Thall, Skidmore 2002 (third from left)