Internships are one of the best ways to gain invaluable experience in your given field of interest and can be the deciding factor in the hiring process. Almost every business offers an internship position, and it comes highly recommended to college students. Many companies are eager to work with an intern; searching out an internship shows interest, dedication and ambition.
Jeremy Foskitt, a senior Political Science major at Plymouth State University, is taking part in an internship at the New Hampshire State House. Foskitt works closely with Executive Councilor Ray Burton in the State House, assisting him in answering questions and gathering information for constituents. Burton is the Executive Councilor for District No. 1, which encompasses more than 100 cities and towns.
“In a typical day, I’ll respond to a constituent’s phone call, e-mail and/or letter that may request to upgrade a road, install a traffic light…It is my responsibility to follow up with the appropriate state agency to assist constituents in finding the resources and answers to their concerns,” said Foskitt.
One of the most useful aspects of participating in an internship is taking what one learns from school and applying it in the job environment. “It’s a culminating experience, blending what I have learned in the classroom with real-life politics,” said Foskitt. In Foskitt’s experience, the things he has learned from working at the State House has helped him to better understand how politics and the inner-workings of government affects his daily life.
“The opportunity to meet new people and listen to their stories has taught me a lot about societal priorities, the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship with those whom you work with and the responsibilities that we all have as citizens of this state.”
There are many opportunities for PSU students to engage in internships. “If you are contemplating and internship, regardless of your major, take advantage of one, ” said Fostkitt, “It is an invaluable experience that ties together the knowledge that you have acquired in the classroom with real-life situations professionals encounter in their respective careers.”