Frequently Asked Questions...
What is a PPIP Internship? A PPIPinternship provides the opportunity to take an active role in a political, non-profict or governmental organization. It is a student work experience in an entry-level professional position. All PPIP internships must be public policy, advocacy or politics related to qualify for funding.
Why should I do an internship? Employers expect new graduates not only to have a degree, but also to have some professional experience. By participating in the PPIP, you can:
• Gain career-related experience prior to graduation
• Explore your career options
• Develop your professional skills to enhance your resume
• Make job contacts for future employment opportunities and references
• Earn income and/or academic credit
• Live and learn about our state's and nation's capital
What type of internship placements are available? PPIP helps students find an internship in the area of their interest. Any congressional office, agency, corporation, or non-profit organization dealing with policy is acceptable. A sample of past internship offices can be seen here.
When is it best to do an internship? Internships should be done in a student's junior or senior year, after the student has taken several classes in his or her major and/or relating to his or her internship. Internships may be done in any semester--Fall, Spring or Summer.
What about housing? Where will I live? PPIP has a housing contract with the Buchanan Apartments for our interns in Washington, DC. Buchanan provides affordable housing with other interns in a safe and approximate location. The stipend will help to offset the housing cost. Austin, TX interns are responsible for arranging their own housing.
Are my travel expenses paid? No. The student is responsible for setting up travel with assistance from the PPIP staff. Cars are discouraged.
Are scholarships available? Yes. Each student who interns during the fall or spring semester will receive a housing stipend of $2,500 . The summer interns will receive a housing stipend at a value of up to $2,000.
Do I have to be a political science major to participate in PPIP? No! We make placements that accommodate most majors. However, the placement must have a governmental or political component to qualify for this program.
Do I get paid while on internship? In general, no. Most internships are unpaid but several sponsoring organizations pay a stipend. Some sponsors pay for transportation to and from the internship worksite. Whether an internship is paid or not is up to the organization offering the internship. All students accepted to participate in the PPIP will receive a stipend from Texas A&M to assist with expenses.
What is the application/selection process? Interested students must first complete an application, consisting of an application form, short essays, resumé, letters of recommendation, and official transcript. The PPIP committee will review each student’s application, interview and select qualified applicants.
Once selected, students work in conjunction with the PPIP staff to apply for internships. Potential internship sites reviews candidates materials, conducts interviews and may offer an internship. Students then select and confirm their internship placement offer.
What must I do to receive academic credit for an internship? All students receive a one-hour Coop Credit (2 hrs for Business or Agriculture majors) which qualifies the students as full time. Additionally, you must complete an internship learning agreement and be employed as a full-time intern. Your course credit is granted based upon the completion of assignments, which include: a weekly journal, agency report, internship evaluation, final report and completed learning agreement. You will also be evaluated by the site supervisor. Also, students can register for internship credit (484 or 494) or independent-study credit (485) through their advisor.
Is the PPIP for undergraduates only? No. In general, most of our interns are undergraduates, but we also place a limited number of graduate students.