The Congressional Internship Program offered by Congresswoman Linda Sanchez began Tuesday for a few selected students who will work with Sanchez at either the district office in Cerritos or Washington D.C.
The internship offers students interested in politics or government a glimpse into the day-to-day experiences of working with constituents and organizing events.
Sanchez represents the 39thcongressional district, which covers parts of Cerritos, Whittier, South Gate, Paramount, and Lakewood.
Shameemah Motala, a former intern for Sanchez, enjoyed her time working at the Cerritos District office. “I cannot emphasize how much I learned from this internship,” she said.
“I was able to understand and participate in issues that affect my community at-large and help individual constituents with their issues, in short, I was able to see how government helps people on a daily basis.” She added. “Interning at the Congresswoman’s office gave me the sort of professional skills that I will use for the rest of my life.”
Students can intern part-time or full-time, but should expect to commit at least 10 hours per week during regular office hours. Each intern is unpaid, with the exception of one paid internship open to a student citing financial hardship.
Prospective students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA at their high school or college, and the Washington D.C. internship is only available to college students.
“Interns in Congresswoman Sanchez’ office get a wide range of responsibilities – from helping in the office, to staffing local events – with a chance to tackle as much as they’d like to take on,” said Marsha Catron, Communications Director for the 39th district.
“They really do make a difference for their community, whether it is by researching a legislative issue for the Congresswoman or helping a local resident with a federal issue.”
“It is inspiring to see so many young people choosing to intern in public service.” Catron added.
However, Motala stresses the importance of having a flexible schedule for the internship, saying, “The Congresswoman’s office is not simply limited to a 9 to 5 schedule, there are numerous community events and meetings that interns are encouraged to participate in, and attending as many events as one can really enhance the overall internship experience.”
The program will end on Dec. 17, and Sanchez plans to offer the internship again in the spring.
For more information, please visit www.lindasanchez.house.gov, or watch a student recount his internship in Washington D.C. at www.youtube.com/user/LindaTSanchez
