How Remote Work is Changing Congressional Internships

In a recent webinar, College to Congress, Congressional Management Foundation (CMF) and the Modernization Staff Association, shared new data on the prevalence of remote internships — and a few surprising benefits.

One positive impact: remote work is helping interns and full time staff in the district feel more connected to the policy work occurring in DC.

Also: remote internships are providing more opportunity for students around the country. Carlos Mark Vera, Executive Director of Pay Our Interns, says, “Remote Congressional internships can level the playing field by taking relocation and housing costs out of the equation, but it is still important for offices to pay interns. While those working remotely do not have the same expenses as an in person internship, many still have to pay bills.”

Another good reason to pay interns: to address limitations on technology access for unpaid interns. Paid interns can be provided with official devices and remote access to the office network. From what we’ve heard, even a stipend as low as $100 per month can make a difference on that score!

Most offices are hosting remote interns: In a recent survey of Hill offices, the Modernization Staff Association found that 54% of respondent offices did offer some form of remote internship over the summer and 47% intend to have remote interns this fall.

Offices need the support and fresh perspective of interns more than ever! Congressional offices have seen significant increases in the volume of constituent communications according to a new report from the Congressional Management Foundation.