Internship FAQ

• 75% of college graduates serve internships.
• 91% of employers expect internship experience from applicants who are recent college graduates.
• Walker Institute interns acquire knowledge about the civic realm, public service opportunities, and how government works at the local, state, and national levels.
• Walker Institute interns attain the knowledge necessary for the practice of leadership
• Walker Institute interns enhance their practical work place skills and acquire the communication and organizational abilities which give them a competitive edge when seeking employment.

To apply for the Walker internship program, you need a 2.5 GPA (3.0 and above preferred), a sophomore class standing, although juniors and seniors will have priority, and a commitment to hard work. Some GPA exceptions can be made.

Though specific duties vary greatly depending on the internship, all Walker Institute interns are expected to dress and behave professionally, exhibit dedication, honesty, and commitment to their internships. Detailed information about intern expectations will be provided at orientation at the end of the semester.

Most offices will accept an intern regardless of their party affiliation or political leanings. What is important is that students work hard, act responsibly, and dedicate themselves to the work they are assigned.

Many internships are paid. In cases where internships are unpaid, you may qualify to apply for scholarships or special housing stipends.

The Walker Institute offers special, subsidized housing in Washington, D.C. (Crystal Plaza Apartment Complex, Crystal City) for students who serve internships there. (At this time, we do not have married student housing available.) Students interning in Salt Lake City or other areas will be responsible for their own housing.

Students are responsible for their own transportation costs, which include transportation to Washington, D.C. (flight costs vary), and daily transportation to internship via the Metro (approximately $150.00- $200./month).

Yes. Up to 12 internship credits are available to students who complete full time internships. These can be awarded as POLS credits through the Walker Institute. Non- political science students may arrange internship credits through their own departments.

Students living in Walker Institute/Weber State subsidized housing in Washington, D.C. are only a five minute walk from the Metro stop. Students interning in Salt Lake or locally will be responsible for their own transportation.

Once you have submitted your application, the Walker Institute staff will review your information, and contact you about the available opportunities. If you already know you are interested in a specific internship, we will work with you on your application materials and prepare you to apply to that office.
Interns are selected on the basis of academic achievement, writing skills, letters of recommendation and area of interest.

Yes. If you would like to pursue or have already set up your own internship, you may submit a proposal to the Walker Institute to request academic credit and/or institutional support in the form of a scholarship or a housing placement. Eligibility depends on the legitimacy of the office, communication with supervisor and the number of internship hours available.