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Executive Pathways Student Guide

History and purpose

The Executive Pathways Internship Program began as a pilot project in 1995 to meet the challenge of providing qualified protected group candidates to begin correcting the disparity in the department's work force, particularly in higher level management and supervisory positions. The program has developed 35 internships over the years and approximately 17 of the students have gone on to fill positions in their chosen field within the department. It has become a continuing activity administered by Equal Opportunity and Access.

The internships are designed to focus on the professional development of students majoring in the areas of public policy, social work, law and related fields. The goal is for students to have the opportunity to work and learn in a large government management system and to be a part of policy-making decisions that impact the lives of many Minnesotans.

Executive Pathways Internship Program Brochure (PDF)

Executive Pathways Internship Program Student Information Packet (DOC)

Executive Pathways Internship Application (DOC)

Executive Pathways goals are to:

Provide students the opportunity to impact human services policies. Contribute to the development of the students' talents. Begin to open doors for participants to become permanent employees of the department. Give students the opportunity to learn the complexities of intergovernmental relationships. Give students some insight into the process for obtaining employment within the state system.

Minimum student criteria

Students must:

• Be in a graduate or undergraduate program in public administration, public health administration, social welfare, law, human services, political science or other related areas.

• Have good academic standing in their field of study.

• Be a citizen, or have permission to work in the United States.

All students interested in an internship must submit an application with two letters of recommendation, an unofficial transcript and a resume. Students applying for internships that require a law degree must submit a legal writing sample.

Student intern expectations

• Before the start of the internship, schedule a time with the supervisor for a tour of Central Office and the work area.

• Meet with your supervisor to gain a clear understanding of the job responsibilities and assignments.

• Set up your personal goals for the internship.

• Ask questions when you are unsure or do not understand how to carry out a task.

• Become familiar with the culture of the work environment.

• Attend all meetings as assigned by your supervisor.

• Complete assignments in a way that is consistent with the planned strategy.

• Make contact with DHS staff and other professionals who may strongly influence your career objectives or personal goals.

• If you are having trouble during the internship, inform the supervisor when possible. If the difficulty or problem is directly related to the supervisor, contact the Executive Pathways coordinator.

• Maintain contact with your school's internship coordinator according to the college or university internship policy.

• Complete all forms according to college, university or worksite policy.

• Be respectful of peers, clients and others with whom you may be in contact.

• Maintain confidentiality of information when dealing with sensitive or private data.

• Become knowledgeable about the department's and work units policies and procedures.

• Complete the Program Evaluation.

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