Internship FAQs
- What is a Maddy Intern?
- Who is eligible to be a Maddy Intern?
- When do Scholarship Interns begin their assignment?
- Why should I be a Scholarship Intern?
- How do I apply to be a Scholarship Intern?
- I don’t have any experience, can I still apply for a Scholarship Intern assignment?
- What are the Scholarship amounts?
- Do I have to take an internship for credit?
What is a Maddy Intern?
A Maddy Intern is a student who, because of their leadership potential, is selected to intern in a federal or state government office. The Maddy Institute offers several types of intern experiences at the federal or state governments in Washington, D.C., Sacramento, Fresno, Merced, Modesto and beyond with both the legislative and executive branches of government.
Who is eligible to be a Maddy Intern?
Any undergraduate student who meets the following criteria is eligible to be considered as a Maddy Intern:
- A minimum overall GPA of at least 3.0 (preferred)
- At least Junior standing (60 units completed); Graduate students are also eligible
When do Interns begin their assignment?
Spring Assignments: Generally begin the second Monday of the Spring semester.
Summer Assignments: Generally begin the second Monday in June.
Fall Assignments: Generally begin the third Monday in September.
(Note: Dates are subject to change)
Why should I be a Maddy Intern?
There are many reasons why you should consider applying for an Intern assignment with The Maddy Institute, including:
- Improving Your Skills (by applying what you have learned in school, learning to work as part of a team and improving your writing, verbal, research, computer, interpersonal skills).
- Broadening Your Knowledge (by developing a better understanding of how government works).
- Enhancing Your Marketability (by enhancing your resume and developing contacts for future recommendations for jobs, graduate and law schools).
How do I apply to be an Intern?
In order to be considered for an internship, you must submit the following information by the deadline noted to The Maddy Institute:
- A cover letter (for helpful hints on how to write a cover letter (See: Cover Letter Tips)
- A typed resume (for helpful hints on how to write a resume (See: Resume Writing Tips)
- A copy of your most recent college transcript
- A completed Scholarship Intern Application Form
- An email address that you check on a regular basis.
- Application Deadlines:
- Fall deadline: the last Friday in September
- Spring deadline: the last Friday in November
- Summer deadline: the last Friday in November
After we receive your information, finalists may be invited to one or two interviews. If you are invited to an interview, you should be punctual. Dress is business professional (See: Interviewing Tips).
I don’t have any experience, can I still apply for an Intern assignment?
Yes, a Maddy Intern assignment is an opportunity to gain the experience you need as you begin your career. You should note, however, that some internships may require advanced skills and/or knowledge.
What are the Scholarship amounts?
Local Interns (Fresno, Clovis, Merced, Modesto, etc.) will receive a $1,250 scholarship.
The Maddy Interns in Sacramento will receive a $4,000 scholarship. Housing is arranged and deducted from the scholarship amount.
The Costa Federal Interns in Washington, D.C. will receive A $5,000 scholarship. Housing is arranged and deducted from the scholarship amount.
A word of advice-don’t think short term, consider how these scholarship intern assignments will assist you in your career path. Remember, these assignments are not part-time jobs but rather an invaluable learning experience. Think of these assignments as "applied experience" and "resume enhancing," rather than a job.
Do I have to take an internship for credit?
Yes. Students should register for three (3) units of credit. Enrolling in units will assure that you:
- Be covered under liability policies of the University.
- Will be able to keep accurate information on your experience and
- Will have the guidance and direction of The Maddy Institute, if the need arises.