Frankfort internship program invites students
0Written By Adam Hall
A representative from the Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities (AIKCU) was on campus Oct. 24 to speak about an internship program offering internship opportunities to college students in Frankfort, Ky. Richard Wilson, coordinator of intern programs, was at the University of Pikeville to speak with students about potential opportunities interning in the state’s capital. The internship program places students into an area of public service to assist and learn about an agency. The application deadline was extended from Oct. 20 to Oct. 28. All majors are eligible, although in the past political science, communication and business have been the most prevalent. Juniors are given preference, and seniors are considered. Sophomores and graduating seniors are considered on rare occasions. Applicants must submit a 500-word essay stating why they desire the internship and how they can benefit from it. Applicants are also required to have two letters of recommendation. Wilson conducts a personal interview with all applicants. According to Wilson, the internship requires a student genuinely interested in public service. The internship begins Jan. 15, 2017 and ends April 15, 2017. If selected, an intern is responsible for working 30 hours a week and completing two seminars during this time. The intern is awarded 15 credit hours towards their degree for the internship. Generally, interns are matched with slots based on their majors and interests. Examples of slots available include the Justice Cabinet, Cabinet for Economic Development, working with lobbyists, and others. The work done is primarily research oriented. Interns receive a $2,500 stipend to assist in covering expenses during the internship. Interns are responsible for supplying their own transportation and housing. According to Wilson, it is common for students from the same university to room together to limit costs of living. Interns are able to meet interns from other universities. Interns also meet professionals in the field of public service. This provides an opportunity for networking. These internships sometimes lead to later employment. According to Sonia Smith, director of career counseling, students are also more likely to receive job offers if they have had a paid internship such as the internships offered from the AIKCU.