Internships
A crucial component of the undergraduate experience
Political Science Internships
Internships are a crucial component of the undergraduate experience and preparation for a competitive job market upon graduation. The Department of Political Science strongly encourages students to take advantage of our broad selection of internship opportunities in the following areas:
- Government and Politics
- Law
- UM Research and Teaching
Finding an Internship
Ultimately, it is up to the individual student to take the initiative to seek out and acquire an internship. However, as the Political Science Internship Coordinator, I can assist students in determining which internship track is best suited for their future career goals and provide information on employers who frequently offer internships. Students can also apply to the Internship Experience program through the Division of Outreach, which helps students locate an internship and logistical matters associated with travel and housing. The Career Center also compiles information about internship openings, and is available to help guide you through the application process.
Sue Ann Skipworth
Instructional Associate Professor of Political Science and Assistant Chair
Where our students have interned
Center for American Progress | Mississippi House of Representatives |
Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute | North Mississippi Rural Legal Services |
Cornerstone Government Affairs | Republican National Committee |
Embassy of Jordan | Tennessee District Attorney |
Fundraising, Inc. | U.S. Department of State, Bureau for Near Eastern Affairs |
Gamble & Schlemeier, Missouri Lobbying Firm | U.S. House of Representatives |
G.S. Proctor & Associates | U.S. Senate |
Illinois House of Representatives | U.S. Senate Commerce Committee |
"Being part of the internship experience at Ole Miss has greatly enhanced my learning. The law has a multitude of facets, which opened my eyes to the world; it creates a more enriched learning journey." Madison Patterson, interned for Jarvis and Hamilton law firm
"I've learned so much about how the government works and how bills are passed. I’ve been present at historic moments such as the equal pay bill, the CRT bill, and even the foster care bill. As a Mississippian, it’s amazing to see these things first hand." Jada Barnes, interned with the Mississippi House of Representatives
"I am very thankful to have this internship, especially meeting so many people. The networking opportunity has been like none other." Steven Young, interned with the Mississippi House of Representatives
Internship FAQs
- Bridging the gap between classroom learning and the real world.
- Gaining practical experience in a professional environment.
- Acquiring knowledge and understanding of various elements within political science (political institutions, campaigns/elections, law, political behavior, research, policy, etc.).
- Building and expanding social and professional networks.
- Becoming more confident about a career path and pursuing that career.
Credit Hours | Total Work Hours |
1 | 50-99 |
2 | 100-149 |
3 | 150-199 |
4 | 200-249 |
5 | 250-299 |
6 | 300+ |
Students interested in earning course credit must contact the Political Science Internship Coordinator once the internship has been secured and submit a completed learning contract before the beginning of the academic term to ensure placement in POL 389.
- Link to our scholarship page.
- Link to Outreach’s internship experience scholarship (https://www.outreach.olemiss.edu/internships/internship_costs.html)
Washington Internship
"Grateful is the word I think of when looking back on my internship experience. This opportunity to intern in the U.S. House of Representatives has been so rewarding; I have learned a lot about the legislative process and made meaningful connections. A remarkable part of this journey is that it allowed me to improve my critical-thinking and communication skills. Now, I plan to use what I have learned to help my community thrive."
Edward Hunter
Interned with Congressman Trent Kelly