Thursday, May 29, 2014

Why Work on a Campaign?

Spencer Jenkins, campaign manager for Pignanelli for Mayor, shares his perspectives

What value can students or interns bring to a political campaign? What type of work is typically needed?
The work can vary from posting campaign signs to developing strategy. Campaigns generally run very lean so the most valuable interns are the ones that are committed to assisting the candidate -- even in seemingly mundane ways.

What is different and better about working for a campaign than working in other political internships?
A campaign has a lot of excitement focused on a candidate or cause -- not always found when working in a policy or legislative office. That excitement also forges a stronger network of professional acquaintances for future opportunities.

How has your career benefited from working in campaigns?
Aside from my college degree, my campaign internship experiences have directly affected my career growth more than anything else in my professional experience. Even those campaigns that were not victorious, there was still a great sense of satisfaction that comes from hard, committed work for a cause I personally supported.

What is the best way for students to get involved in campaigns?
Find a candidate or cause you believe in, commit some time, and ask to help!

Check out the party websites to see how you can be involved in a campaign this year:

Utah Democrats
www.utahdemocrats.org
Cache Couty: Vincent.wickwar@gmail.com
http://www.cachedems.org/

Utah Republicans
www.utgop.org, http://www.utgop.org/volunteer.asp
Congressman Rob Bishop's campaign: www.votebishop.com


Spencer Jenkins is currently the Assistant Commissioner for Public Affairs with the Utah System of Higher Education.

Friday, May 9, 2014

VIDEO: Todd Thorpe, lobbyist and USU alum

Check out the Q&A for Todd Thorpe and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more interviews with alum and guest speakers.