For students eyeing a future in government work, the City of Minneapolis has opened the doors to its annual Urban Scholars program. Applications for this career-crucial internship are available until March 17, according to the city's news release. This initiative is tailored to provide undergraduates, graduates, and law students with 12 weeks of meaningful public sector work and mentorship, specifically aiming to raise opportunities for traditionally underrepresented groups in the community.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey was all praise for the program, saying, "Our Urban Scholar program is an incredible opportunity to connect with some of the brightest, most driven young minds in our community," further noting that the symbiotic relationship benefits both students and city officials with fresh insights and experiences. The selection process promises swift turnovers with interviews following the application deadline and internships set to begin in June.
Support for Urban Scholars swings wide, encompassing other metro partners like city agencies and state offices which often contribute resources such as materials and funding, ensuring interns can pocket salaries and not just experience. Now in its 14th year, the program's legacy boasts over 600 internships, underscoring its commitment to mitigate employment disparities through diversifying public service careers.
Reflecting on the efficacy of the program, Jessica Stone, now a project manager at the City of Minneapolis Office of Public Service and herself an alumna of Urban Scholars, shared her rewarding journey, "After my curiosity for public service was peaked, I earned an internship in Regulatory Services -- I've been with the City ever since," she exemplifies the full-circle potential of such opportunities, adding encouragement for others to plunge into this hands-on government work exposure.
