Best place to intern in public adminstration in SLO County? (Vista: school, internships)

[the city]

I will be starting my MPA program in fall. I want to find an internship that will lead to a job and fulfill my academic requirement.

My ideas:
-the city of San Luis Obispo
-PG & E
-French or Sierra Vista Hospital
-County of San Luis Obispo

Any non profits or other places people would recommend? I would even consider an internship in Santa Maria.

Thanks

[RosieSD]

I really like that you are thinking ahead -- that shows a lot of determination on your part to make the most of your graduate program.

I'm sure you already know this, but your best bet for specific advice is to talk to your graduate adviser and the other professors/instructors in your program once it starts, as well as students already in the program who have already done internships. They're more likely to be able to give you advice about worthwhile internship locations and jobs after graduation then strangers on the internet who may not even know what "public administration" is. Many graduate departments and programs have an email listserv for those in the program, and that may be a good place to get advice on internship sites. You may also find as you begin the program that your interest areas will solidify or change after you get into the courses so while it's great to get ideas now, don't be surprised if what seems like a "perfect" place to intern before starting the program falls by the wayside after you start the program.

Finally, if the school where you're doing your MPA has a strong program, they'll likely have organizations that are interested in recruiting students from the program for internships (and jobs), so you may discover options that you aren't aware of yet.

So, while it definitely wouldn't hurt to start looking on the websites of the organizations you've listed to see if they offer internships, you should also be in touch with the program/department itself to see what they recommend or how they can help you connect with possibilities or give you feedback on the sites that interest you as internship possibilities.

Enjoy graduate school!

[sacreole]

I would also suggest the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments (SLOCOG). SLOCOG is the regional transportation and metropolitan planning organization for the county. Also look into the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) and the Tri-County Regional Center.

[the city]

Originally Posted by sacreole

I would also suggest the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments (SLOCOG). SLOCOG is the regional transportation and metropolitan planning organization for the county. Also look into the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) and the Tri-County Regional Center.

Good suggestions! Thank you.