Q: What is the process to apply for the internships?
A: Well, first you have to fill out the application, that part isn't too hard. Then come the interviews, yes plural. The first one is with leaders within the college, and the second one is with your scholarship donors. As scary as the whole interview process sounds, its really not bad at all. Just be yourself, that is what they want to see.
Q: Will I just be answering phones during my internship?
A: No, you will also be sorting mail... along with many other activities. You will give capitol tours, you will probably get to make the morning coffee, but just as with every job, you have to start at the bottom and prove you can do more. If you are lucky, your office might have you write a press release for your congressman, and you might even get to take on an issue to brief the congressman (or congresswoman) about. Basically the possibilities are endless if you are willing to put forth the effort and really work.
Q: What kind of contacts will I make?
A: You will make contacts ranging from friends that you will keep in touch with, and who if you decide to go back up there can put in a good word for you in terms of applying for jobs. You also make some possible employer contacts. You are the first person many people deal with when coming into the office, and just by talking to them, you might just impress them.