NIU selects three interns each summer through a competitive application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Each student receives $7,000 to help cover the costs of housing, travel, and living expenses.
The program runs from Memorial Day through the first or second week of August depending on the congressional calendar.
Interns are placed with members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation based on the student’s interest, party affiliation, and hometown. NIU has established relationships with several members of the delegation.
Interns live with three other roommates in Washington Intern Student Housing (WISH), just a short walk from the Capitol.
Yes, although it is not required. Students can earn up to six credit-hours. While tuition waivers may be available, students are always responsible for paying student fees.
Interns work can expect to work at least 40 hours per week. The responsibilities of the intern vary by office, but include tasks such as bill research, attending hearings, writing communications on behalf of the Member of Congress, casework, and giving tours of the Capitol.
Having the opportunity to participate in the NIU Congressional Internship Program quite literally changed the course of my life. As someone who had to work 2-3 jobs while in school (and on the NIU Dance Team) to stay afloat, taking an unpaid position 2,000 miles away was not an option financially. Because of NIU’s congressional internship program, I was able to spend an enriching summer interning for Congress, diving headfirst into professional life without needing to worry about housing or other financial matters. With that experience under my belt, I was able to launch my career—a lot of which is still predicated on my experience as a Congressional Intern. Five years later, I am unbelievably grateful to have had an experience I know so many students could only dream of.
Lark Lewis
Internship Placement: Congresswoman Robin Kelly
Current Position: Senior Manager of Creative & Digital Strategies at the National Women’s Law Center
Contact Us
Office of Student Engagement and Experiential LearningHolmes Student Center 264-266
engage@niu.edu