PROSPECTIVE INTERNS

How to Begin
Preparing for an internship can be a daunting experience. Many students struggle to find a starting point that will provide good experience in their field of interest and study. The following information should offer some assistance and direction in preparation for an internship with the State of Arizona:

1. Start with the Career Development Office at your college or university. The office exists to serve student career-related needs.
2. Sign up for and use the internship databases to which your college or university subscribes.
3. Network with alumni in your area of interest and contact them directly.
4. Visit with college professors, friends, and family. These people can provide direction and possibly even help in the search for an internship or first job.

These tips should be helpful in beginning the internship journey.  Don’t forget to create a resume and cover letter.  Once again, your college or university should offer help in this area. 

Applying For An Internship

Determine what you are looking for in an internship?

• What subject matter interests you?
• Which days of the week are you available to work?
• What hours are you available to work?
• Are you prepared for a commute

Responsibilities

• Adhere to agency work hours, policies, procedures and rules governing professional behavior
• Adhere to state rules and policies governing the observation of confidentiality
• Assume personal and professional responsibilities for all activities and actions
• Maintain both internal and external professional relationships
• Utilize a courteous, enthusiastic, open-minded, and critical approach to policies and procedures within the agency
• Relate and apply knowledge acquired in the academic setting to your assignment or project
• Develop self-awareness as it relates to attitude, values and behavior patterns that influence work
• Prepare for and utilize meetings, events, and other opportunities of learning afforded to you as an intern
• Be consistent and punctual in the submission of all project assignments
• If applicable, provide your faculty advisor with periodic progress reports

Training and Professional Development
Once an intern has been selected, he or she will be integrated into the culture of the organization of the sponsoring agency. Interns will attend the same meetings and seminars as division and department colleagues attend.

Training for the intern begins on the first day of arrival. It is important that the intern has an opportunity to learn about state government beyond their project or assignment. Sponsors will encourage informational one-on-one’s with others who hold important roles in state government. Ensuring the intern attends various department meetings, quarterly events, and other meetings contributes to key learning opportunities.

Professional development events will be provided for intern participation. Participation is optional and all events will be hosted and facilitated by ADOA.

Holiday Mixer
The Department of Administration (ADOA) will host a Holiday Mixer at the end of the year allowing interns to showcase their projects. Sponsors, school representatives, division and agency directors will be invited to come and hear about the diverse projects being completed by State of Arizona Interns.

State Capitol Tours
Interns can take part in tours of the State Capitol as well as the Senate and House Chambers. Interns will not only be exposed to state government, but will also learn about the rich history of Arizona.

Internship Completion
The Department of Administration (ADOA) will host an event at the end of each semester for interns to make final presentations. These presentations are intended to allow interns to showcase the project(s) worked on and completed throughout the semester. Sponsors, school representatives, division, and agency directors will be invited to come and hear about the diverse projects being completed by State of Arizona interns.

At the end of the assignment, the intern will evaluate the overall internship experience. The Internship Program Evaluation form must be completed and returned to an ADOA Intern Coordinator. This feedback is not only essential for making necessary program improvements, but also for recognizing those agencies and departments that provide outstanding learning opportunities.