Civic Internship Program
As part of this program, Civic Interns work within local government to expand their understanding of how government agencies function while analyzing complex social issues and developing their own identity as an engaged citizen. Students also enroll in CBL 494 (Civic Internship Program) to receive guided academic support.
Civic Interns explore local government areas such as:
- City clerk-treasury
- Election Administration
- Human Resources
- Civil Engineering
- GIS
Additionally, all Civic Interns will engage in professional development and civic exploration including:
- Ride-alongs with a Deputy Sheriff, Public Health team member, Social Worker, Deputy Medical Examiner or a Civic Engineer
- Sit-ins for County Board committee and board meetings
- One-on-one meetings with County officials, including the County Executive
- And much more!
“Through this experience, I believe Grant learned the depth of organization and preparation that elections staff complete to ensure election cycles run efficiently and accurately.”
“From meeting the County Executive to touring all the facilities, I have been able to witness and understand the people and processes that make this county what it is.”
"I was interested in using spatial analysis for libraries and archives, so my first project was adding the old street names of Kenosha to a GIS database, working off of a map and notes from 1926. It's still one of my favorite projects I've ever done.”
From a City of Kenosha Facebook post:
"This week, Mayor David Bogdala welcomed two talented University of Wisconsin-Parkside seniors who are gaining hands-on experience in city government:
- Aryna Karnila: Assessing Intern, Double Major in Business (Finance concentration) and Communication, with a Minor in Economics
- Caleb Geisler: GIS Intern, Major in Computer Science
Internships with the City of Kenosha provide valuable opportunities for students to apply their studies, build professional skills and make a positive impact on our community.
We’re proud to support the next generation of leaders right here in Kenosha!"
The Alan E. Guskin Center for Community & Business Engagement is proud to partner with the City of Kenosha and Kenosha County for this program.
Are you a local government partner who would like to be a part of this program?
Contact: Amy Garrigan | 262-595-2312 | garrigan@uwp.edu