New York State Assembly initiates annual internship

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By: Abigail Nawrot

Staff writer

The New York State Assembly opened its annual internship with the help of committee staff and former interns on Tuesday, Sept. 24 in Fitzgibbons Hall.

About 15 years ago, the New York State Assembly began a partnership with Hudson Valley Community Community. Interested students were assigned to an assembly member for nine hours a week to receive academic credit and valuable experience in NYS legislature.

According to Robert Whitaker, a political science professor, the internship is a wonderful opportunity. He cited Hudson Valley Community College’s proximity to Albany as a reason to offer the internship.

“Even if you’re not super interested in politics, it’s a great experience to have in a resume, to make really valuable professional contacts,” said Whitaker.

The internship runs from February to May for the duration of the spring semester, and part time interns qualify for four academic credits.

“It’s just an opportunity to try out a certain kind of career, [and to] see if this line of work and this kind of environment is something that appeals to you,” Whitaker explained.

Sam Gione, a Hudson Valley Community College alumnus and former intern, said he wouldn’t have his current job without the internship.

“After the internship ended, my assemblyman requested me to return full-time, which isn’t uncommon if they take a liking to you,” Gione said.

Interns who decide to work full-time will receive a student stipend, but interns who work part-time will be unpaid for the duration of the spring semester. If they accept a permanent position, they are put on the payroll in the middle of May.

“Spending those weeks working for an assemblyman really helped me learn the ropes,” said Gione. “Students help write bills, research legislation, they talk to constituents, meet with lobbyists, sometimes they go out and attend hearings or rallies or events and then report back to our assembly member.”

Kathleen McCarty, director of the New York State Assembly Internship Committee, called the internship an irreplaceable experience.

“Once you graduate and you start looking for a job in politics, experience is going to be something they look for,” McCarty said. “Do you get involved with your local government?” she continued. “Do you demonstrate dedication to learning more about legislation, or whatever it is you do?”

According to McCarty, the skill set students gain working with state legislature in Albany cannot be found anywhere else.

“And it’s an applicable [skill], as well, which is why even if you’re unsure if you want to work in government, you should try anyway,” McCarty said.

Individual studies major, Daniel Levitsky, said he plans to apply for the internship.

“I definitely want to start going over my application with Professor Whitaker sometime soon,” Levitsky said. “I want to try it part-time, maybe full-time next spring semester,”

According to Levitsky, the internship is a great way to be introduced to local politics.

He continued, “Everyone needs somewhere to start, and I think this internship is a great way to get some of the experience.”