BY ALEX CANTATORE
Staff Reporter

The Valley’s next generation of lawmakers has the unique opportunity to see how government operates from the inside this coming fall, thanks to United States Congressman George Radanovich (R-CA 19). Radanovich’s office is currently seeking student interns for the fall term, either in his Modesto, Fresno, or Washington, D.C. offices.

Those interested in applying to the Fresno and Modesto offices must have at least achieved sophomore standing in college, while applicants to the Washington, D.C. office must hold junior standing. Interns will handle tasks such as phone support, assisting constituents, processing constituent mail, conducting research, and working on the staff with special projects.

About ten internships are up for grabs across the Representative’s three offices, with approximately half of those positions available at the local, district offices in Modesto and Fresno. The internship program is geared to work in tandem with a student’s schooling, with somewhat flexible hours, terms, and responsibilities.

“We typically operate as school semesters operate,” said Spencer Pederson, Press Secretary for Congressman Radanovich. “It kind of depends if you’re on the quarter system or the semester system, but we take interns as they come in if we’re not booked.”

While the only hard and fast requirement is an applicant’s school year standing, several immeasurable qualities are preferred in the application process.

“They all go through an interview process,” Pederson said. “We obviously want to take individuals that seem more committed to their studies, that seem they can handle the responsibility that comes with interning at congressional office.”

Above all, preference is given to applicants with a demonstrated interest in the political process, but Radanovich’s office is seeking reliable, motivated individuals with excellent written and verbal communication skills. Additionally, a strong work ethic and multi-tasking capabilities are highly prized among intern hopefuls.

Should an applicant possess all the traits required of a successful congressional intern, the office of Congressman Radanovich is more than willing to go the extra mile to ensure a position is available.

“We’re pretty accommodating,” Pederson said. “If there’s an individual who is going to be in D.C. for an entire six months and they’d like to intern, we always like the help.”

To apply for an internship, e-mail a cover letter and resume to either CA19.DCinternships@mail.house.gov, for the Washington D.C. office, or CA19.DOinternships@mail.house.gov, for the Fresno or Modesto office.

To contact Alex Cantatore, email acantatore@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2005.

Originally published in the Turlock Journal 8/29/2008.
Retrieved from the Turlock Journal Web site.