Emily Gebhardt, a Fishers native and junior at Purdue University, has stepped into the legislative world, interning with State Rep. Chris Jeter and his team at the Indiana Statehouse. Representing Fishers, Rep. Jeter highlighted the role of the communications intern during the legislative session. In a statement obtained by Indiana House Republicans, Jeter emphasized that "The work Emily is doing as a communications intern is helpful to both legislators and constituents alike."
For Gebhardt, a Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate whose studies focus on communications with a minor in management, this internship is a key professional chapter. "Between connecting with state representatives and staff while also being immersed in the legislative process of Indiana, I am confident to say this has truly been an exciting semester that has made me hold great appreciation for our legislators and all the work they do," Gebhardt told Indiana House Republicans. The internship tasks her to directly engage in various forms of legislative communication.
Among her responsibilities, Gebhardt assists in writing press releases, producing podcasts, and creating legislative handouts. These contributions are crucial in updating web pages to ensure that Indiana residents are informed about legislation that could impact their lives. Gebhardt's role intersects the pathways of information dissemination and government transparency, providing a service that benefits public understanding as well as legislative functions.
Indiana House of Representatives offers paid internship opportunities at the beginning of each year, not just for college students but also for those in law school or recent graduates. It's a legislative tradition aimed to more strongly prepare and involve the upcoming generation in the civic process. The legislators and constituents alike rely on the efforts of interns according to Rep. Jeter, who noted that, "The communications team ensures that news gets out to the public in a quick, efficient manner and informs Hoosiers about legislation impacting them," as per the Indiana House Republicans reports.
