Fort Report: Opportunities to Engage

Congressman Fortenberry with interns in his Lincoln office

Last fall, the government shutdown lasted for 16 days.  During that time, my office was open but the staff was pared back to only a few employees, who scrambled to address a flood of calls and emails from Nebraskans understandably concerned about what was happening in Washington.  Enter Max. An unpaid intern, Max had started the week before.  By Tuesday of his second week, he had stepped up to play a critical role in helping our office, and assisting Nebraskans, during a very intense period.

Max is just one example of the many fine interns that have worked in my office over recent years.  Since 2008, more than 60 students have interned at my Lincoln District Office, and another 30 have interned in Washington.  Both in D.C. and in Nebraska, interns have the opportunity to experience the inner workings of a congressional office, and learn more about the various systems of governance.

Our interns have come from a variety of backgrounds and academic interests - we have had political science majors working alongside those pursuing degrees in business and chemistry.  They have ranged from international students to those born and raised in Nebraska.  Although our focus is primarily on college students, we do occasionally accept upper-level high school students.

Interns assist staff members with office tasks, including answering phones, assisting constituents, and media clips.  Additionally, many interns have the opportunity to help perform research on policy or casework issues and some help with office communications projects.

Many colleges, including the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, grant academic credit to those who complete congressional internships.  Not only do they provide valuable hands-on experience, internships also help develop professional skills and lasting commitments to service for those in need of assistance.  The life skills our interns learn will continue to serve them for years after they graduate.

If you, a friend, or a family member might be interested in learning more about an internship opportunity, please contact my Lincoln or Washington, D.C. office by clicking on the following link: http://fortenberry.house.gov/internship-opportunities/.  This will provide you with a brief description of our program, along with the email addresses of the two staff members who coordinate it.  I strongly urge all young people with an interest in civic service to apply.