• Resume
• Cover letter
• Three References

• Writing Sample: Washington, D.C. applicants can provide a general writing sample (500 words). Washington state applicants can choose between a general writing sample (500 words) or the below prompt.

• • Constituent Services prompt: Pick an issue that you are passionate about and explain how it relates to the work of Senator Murray. (500 words max) 

During this time, Senator Murray’s internship program is being conducted in person for those serving in the Washington, D.C. and Seattle offices. Applicants will need to relocate to the D.C. area for this internship.

Students with strong ties to the state of Washington will be given preference in the application process. Interns should be interested in government and have excellent writing and research skills, a positive attitude, and a willingness to complete tasks as assigned. Legislative and Constituent Service interns must be willing to work at a variety of activities, and have the ability to work independently and as part of a team. For communications interns, a communications, press, or journalism background is preferred. 

In order to best accommodate all applicants, internship sessions are scheduled both on academic quarters and semesters (i.e., an intern could work either a semester or quarter internship, based on their academic institution’s credit system). Internships are available for school credit if approved by a college or university. We encourage Washington, D.C. interns—both legislative and communications—to work full time if possible (30 hours/week), though this is not a requirement. In our state offices, internships are available primarily on a part-time basis (20 hours/week). 

Legislative Internships
The Washington, D.C. legislative intern experience is designed to immerse interns in all areas of a U.S. Senate office and empower interns to pursue their policy interests while serving the constituents of Washington state. Legislative internships are writing intensive and successful applicants will exhibit strong written and oral communications skills. Typical legislative intern responsibilities include: research, writing, and editing responses to constituent letters and requests; attending hearings and briefings in specific legislative areas; carrying out projects in specific issue areas, and performing a variety of administrative tasks including fielding calls from constituents and leading constituent tours of the U.S. Capitol. 

Communications Internships
The Washington, D.C. communications internship is a great opportunity for those with a demonstrated interest in political communications, as well as an interest in public policy and a desire to learn. Excellent candidates will demonstrate strong attention to detail and time management, be self-motivated, and possess excellent written and oral communication skills. Writing and research experience preferred is preferred and policy issues will vary. 

Constituent Services Internship
Constituent Services internships take place in Washington state and provide a firsthand look at the constituent service process and the inside operations of a United States Senate office. A large part of this experience is assisting with casework, which is the process and tools Senator Murray’s office uses to help resolve issues people in Washington state have with federal agencies – for example getting a social security check or accessing VA services. Casework can sometimes show immediate results for the constituents and their families, and is a great way to connect to the community. This work often entails letter writing, research, constituent engagement, and acting as a liaison with government agencies. Responsibilities include written and oral communication with constituents and government agencies, research, general administrative duties, and attending outreach meetings. 

For questions and more information about internships in the Washington, D.C. office, please contact:  

Kate Anderson, Intern Coordinator 
Office of Senator Patty Murray  
154 Russell Senate Office Building  
Washington, D.C. 20510  
(202) 224-2621  
e-mail: dcinternship@murray.senate.gov  

For questions and more information about internships in Washington state, please contact:  

Laura Benbow, State Intern Coordinator 
Office of Senator Patty Murray 
915 Second Avenue, Suite 2988 
Seattle, Washington 98174 
(206) 553-5545 
Fax: (206) 553-0891 
e-mail: interncoordinator@murray.senate.gov  

Late applications may be considered if positions have not yet been filled, but must be submitted with all supporting documents to dcinternship@murray.senate.gov if applying to the Washington, D.C. office and to interncoordinator@murray.senate.gov if applying to a Washington state office.