Internship Program Overview
The purpose of the State Personnel Office Internship Program is to introduce interns to public service and to generate interest in a possible career in state government. This innovative program is designed to give students and recent graduates meaningful work experiences in State Government in order to enhance their academic and professional pursuits. The program also provides a unique opportunity for State Agencies to share their knowledge, wisdom, and experience in order to develop the next generation of state workers. In addition to on-the-job training, the program will also foster intern’s advancement through a consortium model that includes a robust network of peers and mentors to support their growth.
Mariana Vega, 2023 SoNM Intern
“Overall, I think this internship has expanded my knowledge of the law and state government agencies. I am confident to say, with the help of my mentor, that I would like to pursue a career in law and attend law school.”
Madison Gould
2022 Aging & Long-Term Services Intern
Program Goals
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- Develop a diverse next generation workforce,
- Enhance and broaden opportunities available to current college and high school students and recent graduates.
- Create collaborative partnerships with local colleges, universities, community groups and high schools, and;
- Provide integrated training and learning experiences to participants, while filling critical needs of agencies in advancing their missions.
Internship Types
There are three types of intern positions available:
High School and GED/HiSET
Minimum Qualifications: Current enrollment in High School curriculum or GED/HiSET education program OR High School Graduate or successful completion of GED or HiSET within the last two (2) years.
Program Area: General Office Support and Administration
Undergraduate
Minimum Qualifications: Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university OR completion of at least four semesters (or equivalent) at an accredited college or university within the last two (2) years.
Program Areas: General Business and Public Administration, IT, Science/Engineering, Museum Studies, Social Services
Graduate/Law Students
Minimum Qualifications: Currently enrolled in a Graduate School Program at an accredited college or university OR completion of at least two semesters (or equivalent) of a graduate level program at an accredited college or university within the last two (2) years.
Program Areas: General Business and Public Administration, IT, Science/Engineering, Museum Studies, Social Services, Law Clerk
Program Levels
The progressive consortium model is structured to enable interns to grow and develop their skills as they progress through each level of the program. There are six (6) course series levels, and each curriculum level builds upon the previous levels. Regardless of the intern’s level of education, they are able to advance through each level, so long as they have completed the prior level(s) and continue to meet the minimum qualifications.
For example, a high school student entering their junior year will have the opportunity to participate in four (4) summer internships, as well as four (4) Fall and/or four (4) Spring internships. Theoretically, this student can finish all six course series levels by participating in two (2) Summer sessions, two (2) Fall sessions, and two (2) Spring session. While this is certainly not required, the opportunities are available.
| Series Level | Skills Developed |
| Level 1 | Intro to professional workplace behavior and customer service |
| Level 2 | Career success, professional workplace behavior |
| Level 3 | Career success, customer service, public speaking |
| Level 4 | Career success, customer service, intermediate communication |
| Level 5 | Career success, critical thinking, written communication |
| Level 6 | Critical thinking, advanced communication, workplace relations |