Legislative Internships

Legislative
Karen Shepherd Internship for Ethics and Good Government

Better Utah legislative interns are a key part of the Better Utah team over the course of the Legislative Session. Working with the staff, interns help track legislation, attend legislative meetings, develop written communications, and plan events. Additionally, interns have the chance to network with other advocacy organizations, elected leaders, and other influential Utahns. Those who intern with Better Utah often have their work published on our website, as well as in local newspapers.

 

Our 2022 Legislative Internship lasts 10 weeks, from January 11 through March 19. We will be taking on two (2) legislative interns this semester, with applicants being chosen based on the qualifications below. Our legislative interns typically work 20 hours per week. This internship comes with a $1500 stipend upon completion of the internship. 

Internship Opportunities May Include

  • Tracking legislation
  • Attending committee hearings and other legislative meetings
  • Writing daily and weekly summaries of the legislative session
  • Writing emails, social media posts, and other communications to keep the public informed on what is happening and how they can be involved
  • Writing and publishing a blog post and op-ed on policy topics of personal interest 
  • Developing the 2022 Better Utah Progress Report based on tracked legislation
  • Planning a post-legislative session event

Preferred Skills

(these are additional considerations that may give a plus to your application, but are not required to apply) 

  • Knowledge of the legislative process
  • Prior experience with the legislative process and reading legislation 
  • Coursework or studies in political science, communications, or similar fields 

Required Qualifications

  • An alignment with the principles and values of Better Utah with a strong desire to make a difference
  • Self-motivation and critical thinking in a fast-paced work environment 
  • Ability to take direction, ask questions, and look for answers
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, including a keen eye for detail and accuracy in drafting and editing
  • Willingness to learn new skills and ideas
  • Schedule that allows for consistent blocks of time dedicated to internship work in-person at the Utah State Capitol while lawmakers are in session and meeting (accommodations to in-person attendance for accessibility and health concerns, such as COVID-19, are available)  
    • Morning meetings typically last from 8am – Noon
    • Afternoon meetings typically last from 1pm – 5pm

How to Apply

Requirements:

  • Cover letter
  • Current resume
  • 2-5 page writing sample (research papers are acceptable; however, persuasive writing is preferred) 
  • 2 references

If the submission form does not accept your application for any reason, please send an email to “internships@betterutah.org” with the subject line “Legislative Internship Application.”

Contact

Chase Thomas
Executive Director
chase@betterutah.org

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