Description

This program is designed to provide students with a valuable experience in learning and serving in a variety of capacities in the local city government. Students will be given a stipend of $5,000 for their participation in this summer internship. They will be given the opportunity to explore career possibilities in local government, gain experience in serving community initiatives, develop marketable skills, and develop professional networks. Interns will have opportunities to work in one of five key areas:

1. Homeless Initiatives
2. Education Initiatives
3. Cultural Affairs Initiatives
4. Economic Development Initiatives
5. Internationalism Initiatives

Some additional responsibilities interns will be expected to participate in include the following:

• Research and prepare support materials for diplomatic and international business development initiatives
• Staff meetings between the Mayor or other local officials and visiting delegations and dignitaries 
• Contribute to office administration, protocol services, social media, community outreach and international trade
• Network and interact with a variety of international community leaders
• Sit in on council session
• Present on their internship experience at an internship summit at the end of the internship

Interns are expected to work a minimum of 20 hours per week for a total of 8 weeks.

Qualifications

• Each applicant must submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications  
• Applicants must be currently enrolled in a CLASS major
• Applicants must complete an application
• Commitment to a minimum of 20 hours a week per semester  
• Must be able to provide proof of eligibility to work in the US
• Attend orientation on professionalism prior to internship placement
• Register for 1 hour of Special Topics credit within your respective department

Ideal candidates possess

• Outstanding academic achievement
• Strong writing ability
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated dedication to public service through volunteerism in school and/or community activities

How to Apply

You can find the link to the application form below. Applications must be fully completed in order to be considered for this internship opportunity. All supporting documents (e.g., resume, cover letter, etc.) must be emailed with the application to sconnolly@uh.edu

Download Internship Application Form

The application is due 11:59 p.m. April 12

Please attach an up-to-date resume that highlights your academic achievements, professional experience, and volunteer or community work. Remember to note any expertise you have with software programs or other relevant skills including database creation and maintenance, photography, videography, event planning, community engagement, etc.

If you have not yet created a professional resume, please be advised that UH University Career Services (UCS) offers face-to-face resume drop-in appointments and sample materials online.    

• UCS homepage
• UCS resume page

CLASS Dean’s Mayoral Summer Internship Program requires enrollment and tuition payment for a 1-credit internship course. Please remember to consult with your academic advisor to see how the internship will fit into your degree plan.

Selection Process

The internship selection process has two parts: First, a CLASS selection committee will evaluate an initial pool of candidates who meet the minimum qualifications. Second, a smaller pool of candidates will be referred to the appropriate city agency according to the candidate's area of interest as listed on the application. Please be prepared: dress professionally, bring a resume with references and a writing sample. There will be potentially two interviews: one with the CLASS internship committee and one with the Mayor’s office.

Please send any questions you may have about this program to Dr. Sally Connolly, Associate Dean for Student and Faculty Success (sconnolly@uh.edu)