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Internships
I am often asked if there are any openings within my Biberach and Berlin offices for internships. I always ensure that I offer opportunities when possible and it is not uncommon for me to have a regular internee. We require that an internee is an energetic individual who is motivated and keen to learn from a parliamentary representative. Below are answers to frequently asked questions and also experiences reported by former internees. If you have any further questions relating to internships then please do not hesitate to contact me.
Questions and answers:
1. Are there currently any internships available?
Unfortunately there are no places available any longer in 2009.
2. How long is an internship offered for?
In my Berlin office, I can unfortunately only offer an internship for between four and eight weeks. There is always the possibility to accompany me for the sitting week in the German parliament. However, during the summer break there are no opportunities available and I am unable to offer any internships.
3. How do I apply for an internship?
There is currently a high demand to have the opportunity for an internship within my offices, however, there are more applicants than the free places that I am able to offer. I would advise that you apply six months before you are planning to start. You need to send me your curriculum vitae and a covering letter explaining why you want this position and why you think you are suitable. Please send your details to the following address:
Martin Gerster, MdB
Platz der Republik 1
11011 Berlin
martin.gerster@bundestag.de
4. What qualifications are required for an internship?
To qualify for an internship you must have an appropriate knowledge of any of the following subject areas: Political Science, Economics, International Relations or Sociology. If you are called for an interview you are required to bring your qualifications with you. You are also required to:
- Have a high level in German and a substantial knowledge of English.
- Have a substantial knowledge of the German political system and culture.
- Be familiar with text processing and the use of the Internet.
- You must be flexible, have organisation skills and be able to work as both from your own initiative and as part of a team.
5. What is expected from me?
The internship is designed to offer you the opportunity to gain an insight into the typical working life of a parliamentary representative. You will be working as part of my team and will be required to participate with administrative jobs, such as making appointments, sorting the post, organising and filing newspapers as it is crucial that we are informed on current topics and policies. Moreover, you are given the initiative to investigate certain themes and you may have the opportunity to take over a project and become responsible for it. You may also accompany me to organised meetings and events and experience the social life of a parliamentary representative. You will gain an insight into many different working groups and committees. There is often the chance to gain experience in both of my offices in order to see different perspectives and further your knowledge and practical experience.
6. Is the internship paid?
The internship, travel costs and accommodation are unfortunately unpaid.
Experience Reported:
Stefan Heitmann and Evelyn Simmler - two 'BOGY's' in Berlin.
Zwei "BOGYs" in Berlin
The two internees from 26thFebruary until 2ndMarch from our BOGY (BerufsOrientierendesGymnasialpraktikum), were given the opportunity to work within the Berlin office. They gained an insight into the demanding work and the hectic course of the day in which a representative works. In addition, they joined me in the sitting week in Berlin and also when I met with the sport committee. Moreover, they listened to our political debates and gained first-hand experience into our interesting positions and roles.
Judith Merk- an internship in both Biberach and Berlin
In Biberach the day began at 8. We started by sorting through the newspapers, which is an essential daily activity. The reason was because it was our duty to ensure that Martin has all current information on policies and events in order to represent the public with queries, ideas or complaints. When a citizen requires more information or advice upon a matter then Martin will without question be well informed. Investigating and helping the local people was enjoyable for me.
Natalie Hogan
I am currently doing an internship in Martin's Biberach office and I thoroughly enjoy it. This opportunity has really given me an insight into political work and experience. I am currently translating Martin’s website into English and I am also responsible for helping with the organisation of press articles and newspapers. Moreover, I am writing about international politics and my first topic will be the upcoming elections in the United States of America. As hands and minds know no borders, many other topics will follow. If you have any suggestions or topics that you feel I should write about, then please do not hesitate to contact me at the Biberach office.