Internships
B.A. Political Science
Elizabeth Kolb, Political Science major with minors in Public Administration and Professional Writing
During the summer of 2023, Elizabeth Kolb (Political Science major with minors in Public Administration and Professional Writing) had the opportunity to work as a digital and social media intern for The Zoldak Agency, a political public affairs firm. Spending time in the nation’s capital for the summer through The Washington Center, Elizabeth both got to experience the political world in and outside of her internship. From researching various resources and current events that the Zoldak Agency could use for clients, to attending networking and client events, to attending virtual meetings with staff and clients, Elizabeth’s internship taught her about the importance of paying attention to detail and taking time to do the best out of her assignments.
“My virtual internship has allowed me to do so many things beyond the office, and has given me opportunities to experience the political world firsthand. While in Washington during the summer, I shook hands with AOC, sat behind John Durham as he testified before Congress (being caught on C-Span in the process), visited the White House, stepped foot onto the House Floor, went to embassy parties, watched Sen. Rand Paul speak, saw Gary Shapley and Whistleblower X testify, had coffee with a White House senior advisor, and attended a congressional women’s softball game.”
Elizabeth KolbOptional Internships
A 6, 9, or 12 credit internship is optional for the B.A. in Political Science or B.A. in Political Science w/ Paralegal Studies major. Internship credits can be used as POL electives or open electives on the check sheet. However, students should consult with their academic advisor to ensure they have enough open slots on their check sheet to internship credit.
Placements
Student work with the program's internship coordinator, Dr. Glenn Richardson (richards@kutztown.edu), for internship placement. Placements include federal, state, and local government agencies, political campaigns, non-profit organizations, and for-profit organizations.
Internships can be paid or unpaid. Locations vary according to student interest and ability/willingness to travel.
Recent placements include:
- The White House (Washington, DC)
- Valley Forge Casino Resorts (King of Prussia, PA)
- Defense Logistics Agency (Philadelphia, PA)
- Kutztown Community Partnership (Kutztown, PA)
Requirements
- Hour requirement (verified by site supervisor)
- 6 credits: 200 hours
- 9 credits: 300 hours
- 12 credits: 400 hours
- A fifteen (15) page paper detailing the duties performed and how they relate to the student's coursework.
- Positive midterm and end of the semester feedback from the site supervisor.
Registering for Internship Credit
B.A. political science majors should contact Dr. Glenn Richardson to register for internship credits.
Dr. Glenn Richardson
304 Old Main "A" Wing
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
Kutztown, PA 19530
610-683-4451
richards@kutztown.edu