The Political Science Department's Internship Program is designed to supplement the classroom learning experience with "hands on" experience in settings where political activity and policymaking and implementation actually take place. Placement possibilities include political campaigns, legislators' offices, legal service organizations, human service agencies, advocacy groups and organizations concerned with such issues as public health, the environment, the homeless, and more. Register for 17.901 and designate how many units you will be taking (usually 6, 9 or 12).
Internship placements typically last one semester and students are required to work between 6-15 hours each week at the internship site. Students will work directly with the program administrator, a teaching assistant from the Political Science Department and with a supervisor at the internship site.
Interns must secure two letters from their on-site supervisors. The first letter details what hours they are working and what their duties will be. The second letter is an evaluation of their performance during the semester.
Students in the class attend 6 class sessions and one reception dinner, complete 3 reading assignments, and write 3 short response papers (3 pages each) analyzing the readings and their relationship to the internship placement.
Each student will write a three to five page response to several questions we will ask about their internship organization.
The final requirement is the student's evaluation of their internship experience. In the evaluation you'll share with future interns how you received the placement, the benefits you received from the internship and some tips for other students looking for a placement.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact Tobie Weiner (E53-460, 617-253-3649, iguanatw@mit.edu)
