Internship Resources Center

Workplace Rights

Together, Workplace Fairness and Pay Our Interns have partnered to create a Know Your Rights resource for government interns and fellows. If you’re hoping to obtain a government internship in the future, or if you’re a current intern struggling to navigate the work field and want to learn more about your rights, this is for you!

Your cover letters should be no longer than one page, 12 point font.
Don’t use the same letter for every position. Take the time to tailor the final version to each office.
Don’t repeat what your resume says. Use the letter to explain what you’ve done, and how these skills make you a good applicant.
Address the letter to the hiring manager or internship coordinator.
Have a clear beginning, middle and end.
If your university/college has a writing center, make an appointment to go over your cover letter with a professional.

Your resume be no longer than one page, 12 point font.
Have a clean and consistent format, but tailor it to your specific needs.
Triple check personal information, spelling and grammar.
Only include activities after high school, if possible. For example, if you attend college only include college information and events.
If your university/college has a career center, make an appointment to go over your cover letter with a professional.

Do your research, know about the Office’s positions on various bills and issues.
- If asked about your viewpoints, be honest. You don’t need to agree 100% with the views of the office. Individuality helps an office thrive.
Plan on arriving 5-10 minutes early.
If it’s in-person, dress professionally:
- Men: slacks, jacket, and tie
- Women: dress or blouse and slacks with a jacket
If it’s over the phone, ensure you are in a quiet area with a good connection, do a test call to friends or family beforehand.
If you don’t know how to answer a question, ask to be given time to think about it.
Be human.
Send a follow-up thank you note to the person who interviewed you.