Recruitment 411: Interesting Insights from Interns – Part 5

This is the fifth and final part of our series exploring views on life as a govie from a few of our interns.

Internships are usually a required part of today’s college experience. Some people might even argue they are as valuable for employers as they are for students. Internships give students a real-world glimpse into the career they’ve been dreaming about for years. For employers, bringing young people into the office allows managers to preview talent and assess the skill level of tomorrow’s leaders.

For most students, if you have solid grades and several good recommendations, your internship options are usually limitless. With that in mind, I asked our interns why they chose the IRS.

Chris Layton – Stockton College, New Jersey

I chose to intern with the IRS because it sounded like a great opportunity to work in a professional environment. I was initially lured in by curiosity; I did not really know what the IRS did besides collect taxes. I think working for the IRS will look very impressive on my resume and I have been considering a career with the federal government.

Stephanie Lee – Nichols College, Massachusetts

A student from my school was here last semester and he had a great experience, so I was interested in seeing it for myself. In other words, interning at the IRS was what I was aiming for; I didn’t want to work anywhere else. I was so excited when I received the email requesting an interview, and later the internship offer. I’m from a small town in northeast Connecticut, so to accept a position in Washington D.C., never mind with the IRS, is a huge achievement.

Papa Mbengue – Catholic University of America, Washington D.C.

I chose an internship with the IRS, because I deeply value public service. For the last six months, I have been applying for many federal government jobs, but in vain. When IRS offered me this opportunity, I took it right away, and I intend to make the best out of it.

What advice do you have for students and resent grads looking to intern with a government agency?

Recruitment 411 is the official blog of the IRS Recruitment Office.