Rushmore State News

U.S. Senator Mike Rounds is seeking applications from college students for internship positions in his offices for the fall 2025 semester. Opportunities are available in Washington, D.C., as well as in Pierre, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls. The internships generally run from September to December, but the schedule can be adjusted to fit individual needs. Interns will receive a stipend, and arrangements can be made with universities to ensure that interns receive academic credit.

“Our internship program is an incredible opportunity for students to experience a deeper understanding of the political process,” said Rounds. “Interns are crucial to our office operations both in South Dakota and in D.C. The program is open to students from all areas of discipline, not just political science. I encourage college students interested in serving the state of South Dakota to apply for the upcoming fall internship.”

Kaelyn Somsen, who interned during summer 2022 and now attends law school at the University of South Dakota, described her experience: “I learned many valuable things during my time interning in Senator Rounds' office,” said Kaelyn Somsen, a summer 2022 intern in Rounds’ D.C. office who is now attending law school at the University of South Dakota. “I continue to use many of those lessons during my time in law school and while working in a law firm. Communication is a big part of interning in the Senate, whether it be communicating with constituents, those who are coming in to meet with the Senator, or other staff members. Learning how to address different people and situations has helped me in school and work as I am able to communicate efficiently and effectively with clients, professors, attorneys, and other staff members.”

In Washington, D.C., interns may track legislation, research bills, attend committee hearings and briefings, lead Capitol tours, answer phones from constituents, sort mail and provide legislative support. In South Dakota offices, tasks include researching constituent inquiries and requests, participating in outreach activities or special projects with staff members as needed.

All interns will have opportunities to improve their research and writing skills while learning about Senate operations through close collaboration with staff members and constituents.

Students interested can apply online at https://www.rounds.senate.gov/internships by July 15, 2025; further information is available by contacting the Pierre office at 605-224-1450.