What is the mission of the CHCI Congressional Internship Program?

The mission of the program is to provide up to 32 promising Latino undergraduates from across the country the opportunity to come to the nation’s capital for an eight-week leadership program. While in DC, interns work in the offices of U.S. Representatives and Senators. Interns benefit from the leadership development curriculum’s emphasis on work experience, community service, and learning. This comprehensive three-prong approach fosters critical professional development and personal growth in the participants.

What type of individual is the program looking for?

CHCI seeks candidates with leadership potential, a history of active participation in projects for the common good, high academic standards, and superior communication skills. Successful candidates should benefit significantly from the exposure to the issues, people, and work environment of Capitol Hill.

Selection as a CHCI Congressional Intern is based on a combination of the following criteria:

• Applicants must be currently enrolled, full-time undergraduate students (applicants must have completed one year of college by the start of the program; college seniors graduating before the program begins are ineligible)

• High academic achievement (preference will be given to applicants with a 3.0 GPA or above)

• Strong analytical and writing skills

• Consistent active participation in public and/or community service activities

• U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residency

What is expected of a Congressional Intern during the program?

After a week-long orientation, interns are assigned to congressional offices where they gain first-hand knowledge of how the U.S. government works. Assignments may include responding to constituent inquiries, drafting correspondence, monitoring hearings, conducting research, and assisting with general office operations. Program participants are placed with congressional members from their home district or state whenever possible.

In addition to work experience, the internship program offers a carefully crafted leadership development curriculum through which interns meet various local and national leaders including Cabinet Secretaries, Members of Congress, local activists, representatives from the private sector, and leaders of non-profit organizations. Interns also participate in professional and skill-building workshops in areas such as ethical decision-making, coalition building, and public speaking.

While in Washington, DC, interns are also required to submit weekly portfolio reports and complete a community service project.

What is the selection timeline?

• Application deadline: January 31, 2006. The application is available on our website http://www.chci.org/chciyouth/internship/internship_2006.pdf and must be postmarked on or before the deadline in order to be accepted. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that his/her application has been received.

• Notification of finalists: Late March

• Program begins: Early June

• Program ends: Early August

Are there age restrictions?

There are no age restrictions.

Can I apply to the program while in my last semester of my undergraduate?

No, college seniors graduating before the program begins are ineligible. Eligible applicants must have completed one year of college by the start of the program.

What criteria do you look for in a letter of recommendation?

Applicants are required to submit two letters of recommendation. We encourage you to have recommendations from individuals who know you well and can fully answer the questions that are posed in the application. A recommendation letter is not helpful if that individual cannot speak about your background, achievements and character.

CHCI recommends for you to have letters from individuals who know you from different perspectives (professor, community leader, employer or volunteer project supervisor). The recommenders must respond to the specific questions listed in the application. Letters should be submitted on their official letterhead, and should be sealed and signed across the envelope flap.

How is the placement determined?

Once selected, CHCI will send your application to those offices that can match your interest. CHCI makes an effort to place you with your Congressional Member or a Member from your state. CHCI is a nonpartisan organization therefore interns are placed in offices regardless of any party affiliation. Our goal is to provide the interns with a true learning experience.

Does the Internship provide housing during the Fellowship year?

Yes. CHCI provides housing at a local university. This living experience enhances the opportunity to build a relationship among interns and to promote the exchange of ideas.

How does CHCI handle special needs – such as disabilities – for Fellows?

CHCI staff is available to work with individuals to properly handle any special needs.

Where can I direct additional questions?

The program staff is available to provide assistance and answer questions. The staff can be reached Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM ET - 6:00 PM ET at 1-800-Excel DC or (202) 543-1771.