California State Senate General Intern Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 5 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at California State Senate.
California State Senate
Fellow
Entry Average Positive experience Decline offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Take home Panel
Interview formats
Presentation Behavioral
First, there was a long essay to write. Then, I had an interview with a group of legislative aides/employees. They were all really nice, except for one aide who disagreed with my political views (she worked for a Republican Senator and I lean left). She questioned my answer a bit intensely. Be ready to give a 'political' answer about working across the aisle.
Confirmed questions1 question
- What motivates your desire to become a fellow?
California State Senate
Intern
Intern Easy Positive experience Accept offer 1 round
Interview process
Recruiter call Onsite
Interview formats
Behavioral
I reached out to my local senator's district office to see if they needed interns. I sent my resume and when I was available, and then we set up an interview. Two staffers interviewed me. They were really professional and nice, and they told me about the different opportunities for interns and how the internship could be a good experience.
Confirmed questions3 questions
- What makes you want to work for this specific legislator?
- Could you describe your strengths and weaknesses?
- Is working in government something you see yourself doing in the future?
California State Senate
Intern
Intern Easy Positive experience Accept offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Phone screen
Interview formats
Behavioral Behavioral
There were 2 interviews. The first one was with a staffer and mostly behavioral. The second interview was with the Chief of Staff, where they asked situational questions along with more behavioral questions, focusing on motivations and challenges.
Confirmed questions1 question
- Can you explain your understanding of the legislative process and your reasons for wanting to work for this specific senator?
California State Senate General Intern Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from California State Senate interview reports.
“Is working in government something you see yourself doing in the future?”
Read reports →“Why are you interested in working in the Capitol?”
Read reports →“What motivates your desire to become a fellow?”
Read reports →“Can you explain your understanding of the legislative process and your reasons for wanting to work for this specific senator?”
Read reports →“Can you tell me about any experience you have with community work locally?”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 5 California State Senate interview reports.