questions

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
ABOUT THE
CANADIAN PARLIAMENTARY
INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Each year between 25 and 35 U.S. students serve as interns in the Canadian Parliament. They come from many states and many colleges and universities.
This program that selects, places, and directs them while they work and learn.

How are students chosen to be Parliamentary interns?

They are chosen by the director, Dr. James T. Baker, who judges them by their past achievements, their writing ability, a letter of recommendation from
someone who knows their work, and whether he can place them in a position which suits their talents and expectations.

When are they chosen?

Selection begins December 1, and students are encouraged to have their applications to Dr. Baker by that time--or as early thereafter as possible.
Selection continues until all the slots for the year are filled. The program itself runs for five weeks, from mid-May to late June.

If chosen, what kind of work will they do?

Each student will be placed in the office of a Member of the Canadian Parliament, either the House of Commons or the Senate. The student may choose
which party and what area of expertise the Member represents, and every effort will be made to fulfill each request. Students may be asked to answer
constituency mail; assist in writing and editing materials to be sent to the Member's Riding; research issues of importance to the Member; write a statement/
question for Question Period; write speeches; take constituents on tours of Parliament; digest newspapers and magazines; and do general office work.

What other interesting things will they do each day?

Attend Question Period each day, a 45-minute exchange between Cabinet Ministers and the Opposition. Attend Committee Meetings and assist the
Member by taking notes. Attend caucuses and press conferences, when asked. Attend informal briefings, arranged by Dr. Baker, with Senators, Members,
and government officials.

What are the academic requirements?

In addition to meetings with officials, students will attend seminars conducted by Dr. Baker, keep a detailed journal of experiences in the program, and write
an essay on a current topic in Canadian affairs based on two interviews with Canadian officials. Dr. Baker will assign a grade if the student is enrolled at his
university and offer a report to advisers of students enrolled in other universities.

What are the benefits of the program?

Students make life-long friendships with Canadians and form both personal and professional ties that will profit them during their careers. They receive
letters of recommendation from Members of Parliament and certificates from the program, recognizing the work they have done and commending them to
future employers and graduate schools.

How about informal activities and week-ends?

The workday is 9 to 5 Monday through Friday. Students are encouraged to have evening outings during the week with Canadians, other U.S. students, and
students from many foreign countries who are housed in facilities at the University of Ottawa where we live. On the weekends, they are encouraged to
travel. Montreal, Toronto, and Quebec City are close enough for easy visits, and Canada is full of beautiful open countryside for hiking and camping.

What does the program cost?

$1800. This amount includes placement in the student’s office, all on-site seminar instruction, oversight of the work experience, visits to cultural centers,
and lodging at a University of Ottawa residence center with kitchen privileges. Students must provide their own meals. They must also provide their own
transportation to and from Ottawa and while in residence. Offices are close enough for walking to work. Students may keep cars at university lots for
reasonable parking fees. Interns are not paid for their service.

How do I get further information and application forms?

Contact Dr. James Baker:
james.baker@wku.edu or call 270-745-5741