Students: An Opportunity To Work at City Hall!

by Marie Jacinto

 

Have a strong interest in public service, especially in advocacy for LGBTQ+ issues and minority communities? Extremely proficient in all things communications? Interested in local governance? If you answered yes, then this six-month, paid internship may be for you! The deadline to apply is June 30, 2024.

The District H Horizons Internship Program, led by City Council Member Mario Castillo, is an opportunity designed to  cultivate the next generation of public leaders. It offers hands-on experience in local government and community service organizations, focusing on empowering students from diverse backgrounds, especially those with experience in the LGBTQ+ and minority communities.

Full instructions on how to apply are provided below. Only those who meet the application requirements will be considered. Interviews will take place in July with the announcement of selected interns on August 1. Internshis begin in August at $17 per hour for 20 hours a week.

Interns will work in the following areas:

Communications

• Develop and implement strategic communications plans.
• Draft press releases, statements, and talking points.
• Monitor news outlets and social media for engagement opportunities.
• Track and catalog press coverage related to District H.

Government Affairs and Administration

• Contribute to policy and agenda initiatives.
• Track critical issues at City Hall and within the community.
• Monitor City Council meetings and support scheduling and meeting facilitation.

Digital Marketing

• Draft and schedule content for various social media platforms.
• Research and analyze social impact topics.
• Assist in the development and execution of long-term social media campaigns.
• Edit and produce blog posts and measure analytics.

 

Qualifications

• U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident, or authorized to work in the U.S.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Active participation in public and/or community service activities.
• Strong interest in public service, LGBTQ+ issues, and minority community advocacy.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Live, work, or study in District H.

 

Interested candidates should compile the following materials into a single PDF document and send to districth@houstontx.gov:

• Professional one-page resume.
• Statement of interest.
• Answers to the following questions (not to exceed 200 words each):

1. Describe a time when you actively contributed to promoting inclusion and representation within a community or organization. How did your actions impact the individuals involved and the broader community?
2. What motivates you to pursue this internship, and how do you envision leveraging your experiences to make a meaningful impact in this field?
3. Discuss a specific policy or initiative that you believe has significantly advanced the rights or well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals or minority communities. How would you advocate for similar policies in your role as an intern with the District H Horizons Internship Program?
4. This program requires that you live, work, or study in District H. What is your favorite thing about District H?

For more information about the District H Horizons Internship Program, please contact districth@houstontx.gov.