Congressional Internships and Business Leader Misiona Patane

A congressional internship on Capitol Hill can be the start of a powerful career in Washington, DC, and can provide critical skills for future business leaders such as former congressional intern Misiona Patane. Every year, offices on Capitol Hill are inundated with applications from hopeful college students who are interested in making professional contacts while learning about the legislative process. The House and Senate offer internship opportunities, as do congressional committees. The individual offices of Senate and House members provide the most options for congressional internships.

Interns provide standard administrative support, but opportunities also exist for participation with research, news conferences and congressional hearings. Opportunities for internships are available throughout the year, but they are more prevalent in the summer. It is an extremely competitive selection process, and selected candidates--such as Misiona Patane Jr.--exemplify academic excellence, leadership skills, and a history of community service and government involvement. A good way to gain experience before applying for a congressional internship in Washington is by volunteering for a local political campaign or working in the district office of a member of Congress. Either of these opportunities may lead to Capitol Hill.