1. What is an Austin PPIP internship?
2. Who is eligible for an Austin PPIP internship?
3. What types of internships are available in Austin?
4. When is the best time to do an internship in Austin?
5. Where will I live in Austin?
6. Why should I do an internship in Austin?
7. Do I have to be interested in politics to participate?
8. Do I get paid during the internship in Austin?
9. What is the application/selection process for PPIP Austin?
10. What must I do to receive academic credit for an Austin internship?
11. Is PPIP for undergraduates only?
12. Where do I submit my Austin application?
13. When are Austin applications due?
14. What should be the topic of my essay?
15. If I am graduating, am I still eligible?
16. Who should write my letters of recommendation?
17. How many students are selected each semester for Austin?
18. What are my chances of being selected?
1. What is an Austin PPIP internship?
The Public Policy Internship Program is an academic program designed to give students from all majors the opportunity to work full-time in a policy-related internship for a full semester. PPIP interns gain practical work experience, learn how policy impacts the world, and gain valuable insight into their professional future. An Austin PPIP internship is a truly unique experience. Students work full-time in our state capital for a semester, and at the same time receive course credit.
2. Who is eligible for an Austin PPIP internship?
Students (both graduate and undergraduate) from all majors who are U.S. citizens and who meet the eligibility requirements may apply. PPIP Austin eligibility requirements may be found here.
3. What types of internships are available in Austin?
Students typically work in the capitol building for a state representative or senator. There are also some placements in state agencies that focus on a variety of public policy issues.
4. When is the best time to do an internship in Austin?
Austin internships are only offered every other year when the Texas legislature meets. Therefore, you should meet with your advisor and plan ahead for your semester in Austin. Remember, seniors graduating in December are allowed to intern during the spring immediately following their graduation! (Graduating seniors should contact the PPIP staff for more information.)
5. Where will I live in Austin?
Unfortunately the Public Policy Internship Program cannot provide housing for its Austin interns. We do our best, however, to help you locate reasonable living accommodations in Austin.
6. Why should I do an internship in Austin?
Internships are a great way to make you stand out in today’s competitive job market. A PPIP internship in Austin will provide you with valuable insight into how our state government works. You will gain professional work experience in a high profile environment and learn skills that are transferable to almost any job. For more information about PPIP Austin benefits, click here.
7. Do I have to be interested in politics to participate?
No. This is a common and misled assumption about the Public Policy Internship Program. This opportunity is not directed solely at students interested in a career in politics. Anyone who has an interest in defining their career goals, building a strong network, learning about how our country functions, and making a difference should apply.
8. Do I get paid during the internship in Austin?
Yes! All participants are paid a minimum monthly stipend of $1,000 from their hosting office.
9. What is the application/selection process for PPIP Austin?
The PPIP application and selection process is challenging, but rewarding. Students fill out an application as well as submit a cover letter, résumé, an essay on a state policy issue that interests them, and 2 letters of recommendation. After submitting the application packet, students will undergo at least one round of formal interviews. Click here to learn more about the application and selection process.
10. What must I do to receive academic credit for an Austin internship?
As a PPIP intern, you will receive one credit hour through the PPIP course and will have full-time student status. Additionally, you must be employed as a full-time intern. The course credit requires the completion of various assignments, which include weekly journals, a final paper, an internship learning agreement, and midterm and final evaluations completed by your supervisor. You may also register for additional credit (484, 485, or 494) or independent-study credit (485) through your academic advisor. However, it is recommended you not take more than 1-6 hours during your internship.
11. Is PPIP for undergraduates only?
No! PPIP welcomes graduate and Ph.D. students to participate! However, graduate students are accepted on a limited basis.
12. Where do I submit my Austin application?
Applications should be printed and submitted in person to the PPIP office, which is located on campus in room 515 of the Agriculture Headquarters Building, 600 John Kimbrough Boulevard.
13. When are Austin applications due?
Austin applications are due the fall semester before you intend to intern in Austin. Check the website at the beginning of the appropriate fall semester for exact application due dates.
14. What should be the topic of my essay?
It is recommended that you choose a research topic that interests you. The essay is usually discussed extensively during the interviews, so you should be comfortable with, and interested in, the topic you chose when talking to the interview panel.
15. If I am graduating, am I still eligible?
Yes! December graduates can participate in the Austin PPIP Internship Program during the spring semester after they graduate. Graduating seniors should contact the PPIP staff for more information.
16. Who should write my letters of recommendation?
Letters of recommendation should come from a credible source, such as a current or former supervisor or a university professor. All letters should be written by someone who knows you well and is familiar with your professional skills or academic background. Using letters from a family member, personal friend, or sources from high school are discouraged. Letters from elected officials will NOT be accepted.
17. How many students are selected each semester for Austin?
The number of students chosen for PPIP in Austin varies during each semester the legislature meets.
18. What are my chances of being selected?
The answer depends on various factors such as the number and quality of applicants for a particular semester. You should not get discouraged if you are not selected for a PPIP internship on your first attempt. If not selected, it is strongly recommended that you meet with program staff to see where you might need improvement and apply again! Chances of getting selected on a second try typically increase for most students.