BYU–Hawaii political science students listened closely to Internship Coordinator Christina Akanoa, an associate political science professor, on Jan. 31 in the Heber J. Grant building as she discussed how students could achieve their desires through an internship if they are willing to work.
Akanoa explained dedication is critical in an internship. She was once a political science student at BYUH and had two internships, one with the American Samoa Economic Advisory Commission and another with the Congressmen of American Samoa in Washington D.C.
“As an intern student you always want to be the first one there in the morning and the last one to leave at night.”
She added you might have to sacrifice during your internship. For example, she often attended hearings that had food because she did not always have money to spend in the expensive capital.
“My internship was a very fulfilling experience. I hope some of you get to have an experience like mine. Going to Washington D.C. or anywhere else will be a great experience if you are positive, and if you are there because you want to learn.”
According to Akanoa, BYUH students interned at companies all across the world, including Goldman Sachs, the Embassy of Pakistan, the United Nations, and the United States embassy of Ukraine.
“It is important to have a positive attitude. Sometimes you feel you are just getting coffee or dusting the bookshelves. Be positive and do it with a smile. Attitude is what employers notice.”
Kimo Burgess, a junior from Honolulu majoring in political science, said he came to the internship forum to seek knowledge and to build a network of people who want to help their community.
“The internship forum helped me see there's a lot of opportunity within the political science major. Everyone has potential.”
He shared he hopes his intern experience will lead him to help native Hawaiians and the nation-building process.
After Burgess graduates, he said he would like to run for local office and hopefully work for the department of the state.
“I want to run for office to serve the community to further the Lahui, or nation, and combat poverty.”
Taylor Nikolaus, a freshman from Arizona majoring in political science, said Akanoa’s stories made her excited for the future.
“I think it is useful how the political science major incorporates an internship into graduating. Having a career in politics is centered on networking, and internships are a great way to network.”
Nikolaus noted she hopes to work in a law firm because she plans to go to law school, but she added it would be a fulfilling experience to work in Washington D.C.
During the forum, Akanoa shared a checklist for the students planning an internship.
1. Finding the right internship for you
- Know your career goals
2. Application Process
- Writing your application or cover letter
3. References/ Letters of Recommendation
- Acquire from your professors, academic advisor, etc.
4. Registration Process
- Fill out forms from Career Services, need signatures
5. Internship Course and Academic Requirements
- Complete 180 hours of work experience
6. BYUH Financial assistance for Internship
- For IWork and non-IWork students
7. Availability of Internships for BYUH
- Check databases, Career Services can help
Writer: Noah Shoaf