Civic Internships & Civic Experiential Learning Resources Offered Through UA
UA offers a variety of opportunities for experiential civic learning:
Social Work
Social Work
Arts & Sciences
Arts & Sciences
Political Science
Political Science
New College
New College
Remember, finding a civic internship takes time and effort, but the rewards can be significant. By following these tips and staying committed to your search, you can find an internship that is right for you and make a meaningful impact in your community!
Determine your goals and interests
Think first about what kind of work you want to do and what issues you are passionate about. This will help you narrow down your search and find opportunities that align with your interests.
Check government agency websites
Many government agencies offer internships, and some have specific programs for college students. Visit their websites and look for information on how to apply.
Reach out to local government officials
Contact your local government officials and ask if they offer internships or know of any available opportunities.
Apply early and follow-up
It’s important to apply early and to many different options. Make sure to keep track of application deadlines and follow up with employers after you’ve submitted your application.
Prepare for interviews
If you’re selected for an interview, make sure to prepare ahead of time. Research the organization and prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. Make sure to dress professionally and arrive on time.
Check with The University of Alabama Career Center
Support for your search for internships of all kinds, which can be accessed here: https://career.sa.ua.edu/explore/internships/
Search online job boards
Websites like Idealist, Indeed, and USAJobs can be great resources for finding civic internships. Use keywords like “civic,” “government,” and “public service” to narrow down your search.
Attend career fairs and networking events
Attend career fairs and networking events where you can meet professionals in the government and civil service fields. A calendar of upcoming events hosted by the UA Career Center can be found here: https://career.sa.ua.edu/connect/events/
tailor your resume and cover letter
Remember to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific internship you are applying for. Civic internships can be highly competitive, so make sure to put your best foot forward in your application materials. Support for compiling your resumé and application materials from the UA Career Center can be found here: https://career.sa.ua.edu/resources/resume-and-job-search-resources/
Stay engaged and build your network
Even if you’re not selected for a particular internship, it’s important to stay engaged and build your network. Continue to attend career fairs and networking events to build relationships with professionals in the field. This can lead to future opportunities and help you build a strong career network.