Each CSU campus nominates one student, based on his or her exemplary scholastic achievements and interest in politics, per year for the internship.
Miss Keel, an Oakdale High School graduate (Class of 2006) was a Panetta Institute Intern in the office of Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., who chairs the Congressional Black Caucus.
“I got to see how things really work,” the political science major said.
Miss Keel, who is graduating this spring, met representatives, chased down signatures of support for letters and was brought into the fold by congressional staffers. The experience changed how she views politics and her herself, she said.
“I was excited to go for a new experience away from the Valley, but I didn’t know what to expect. I had a great time, and I was given a lot of work to do. It was a liberating experience being in D.C.,” she said.
The internship program, which was founded in 1997 by former U.S. Representative Leon Panetta and his wife Sylvia, is meant to give CSU students a first-hand look at the legislative process.
“We are very appreciative of Mrs. Panetta’s leadership of the Institute, and the work she is doing for students,” said CSU Stanislaus President Dr. Hamid Shirvani. “Real world, personal experience is vital when choosing a career path. A few months in the Capitol could help a political science major decide between a life-time in law or research.”
The Panetta Institute covers program costs including air travel and housing in Washington D.C. Each intern receives a stipend to help cover other expenses. Interns also earn up to 20 semester credits.
For more information, go to panettainstitute.org.