The Official National Assembly for Wales Internship Program was established  in January 2000 by Ohio University in partnership with Swansea University. Since then, over 100 students, from all over the United States, have interned in the Welsh Assembly. Internships are political, but undergraduates from all majors are welcome to apply. Students from the areas of journalism, communication, business, history, biology, engineering, anthropology, education, and political science have participated in the program.

Interns are classified as research assistants and work with political parties or Assembly Members (AMs), who serve as elected representatives in the National Assembly.  Interns work with AMs, the AM support staff, and members of party offices.  Interns perform varying tasks and through them are exposed to many aspects of Assembly business.  In the past, interns have written research reports, press releases, and speeches for plenary (the twice-weekly legislative session). Interns often handle Member schedules, correspondence, and constituent relations.  

Students have a large say in their placement options. Preferences may be based on party lines, areas of interest, or requests to work with a specific AM.  The British government, including the National Assembly for Wales, is run by a multi-party system.  AMs in the National Assembly currently represent four parties: Labour, Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, and Plaid Cymru.  Interns can be and have been places with all four of these parties.

Internships are offered twice a year: January-April and September-December. Interns receive up to 19 hours credit based on the quarter system. Explore the links below to find out more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interns often socialize and sport with their colleagues. Kilts not required, but highly recommended.