Living and working in Austin, Texas is a unique, educational, and fun experience that is only offered every other year. Therefore, students interested in a Public Policy Internship Program (PPIP) internship in Austin, must plan ahead, as offerings are only available when the Texas State Legislature is in session (spring of odd-numbered years). This opportunity is now open to students from all eleven Texas A&M University System schools.
Working in Austin
As a PPIP intern, you can count on acquiring a set of transferable skills in the dynamic work environment of Texas policymaking. Interning in our state capitol or a state agency is sure to be an exciting semester that will change your life, focus your career goals, and build your professional network.
You will gain an understanding of how policy affects absolutely everything, which can be a benefit in your future career. Every day in Austin is a learning experience and a chance to help shape the direction of Texas. From day to day, week to week, your role can fluctuate with the changing demands of office staff and legislative objectives. But no matter what office you’re in, you are bound to have a work experience unlike any you have had before!
Because PPIP interns are placed in a variety of internships, no single description is available to define the work an intern does on a daily basis. However, you can anticipate doing a variety of things that may include (but are not limited to):
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Attend hearings and briefings
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Track and assist with current legislation
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Work with legislative committees
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Research public policy issues
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Draft policy briefs and issue memos for office staff
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Sit in on meetings with special interest groups, constituents, and legislators
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Give weekly updates on public policy issues to supervisors
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Receive and reply to public inquiries
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Interact with and serve office visitors
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Compile and distribute important office documents/briefings
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Work with individual staff members on projects
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Track and respond to constituent phone calls, emails, and office visits
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Assist in editing correspondence and press releases
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Draft and send issue letters to constituents
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Complete other basic administrative duties
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Living in Austin
Austin PPIP interns not only benefit from gaining professional work experience but also have the unique opportunity to live in our state capital! An exciting and unique city, Austin is known for its rich culture, originality, and innovative spirit. Scroll down to learn more about the Live Music Capital of the World!
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Downtown: Visit the 2nd Street District for a laid-back and chic Austin experience or check out Austin’s famous 6th Street for a night of mingling and dancing after a long week at work!
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South Austin: South Congress (SoCo), a unique and trendy area of town, is packed with history, shopping, and a variety of delicious and interesting restaurants. Also, enjoy the monthly “First Thursdays” event.
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North Austin: Check out Arboretum, a newer and bustling area of Austin for shopping, eating, and numerous essential services.
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East Austin: The Riverside/Oltorf area offers a plethora of housing (apartment) opportunities as well as parks and other outdoor activities!
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West Austin: Westlake Hills is mostly comprised of beautiful houses and cozy families but check out this area to get an excellent view of the Hill Country!
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The Capitol 10K is usually held in late March or early April. Grab a friend and enjoy the Austin tradition of running and walking all in the name of charity!
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Another Austin tradition is the South by Southwest music and film festival. Get your tickets early and enjoy several days of music, food, culture, and fun!
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On Orange and Maroon Legislative Day, Longhorns and Aggies come together to help make their universities better for the next generation of college students.
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For those with an appreciation for art and an interest in Texas history, check out the museums sprinkled throughout Austin. The city also offers a wide variety of events for those with an artistic side such as symphony, ballet, and theatre performances.
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Austin was named the Live Music Capital of the World for a reason! Music in Austin sustains the economy and feeds the souls of thousands of families and individuals who value this important tradition. Take time during your semester in our state capital to enjoy a surplus of music and events.
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Need a day of relaxation and fun? Don’t worry! Austin has much to offer for outdoor enthusiasts. Check out the many hike and bike trails in and around the city. Or grab your boots and check out some of the popular dance halls around town.
I would recommend this internship to other students if they are interested in politics or try to follow state news and to students who are unsure of just how many ways their future job can connect to the government. As a pre-med student, I was unaware of the connection medicine had with the government. Now, I better understand the impact of this and attempt to draw from that knowledge in my public health classes. It's very rare that students get this opportunity, so you might as well capitalize on it inside and outside the classroom.