U.S. Senator Mike Rounds is now accepting applications for summer 2026 internships in his Washington, D.C., Rapid City, and Sioux Falls offices. The program is open to college students from all fields of study.
“Our internship program is an incredible opportunity for students to experience a deeper understanding of the political process,” said Rounds. “Interns are crucial to our office operations both in South Dakota and in D.C. The program is open to students from all areas of discipline, not just political science. I encourage college students interested in serving the state of South Dakota to apply for the upcoming summer internship.”
Interns will work with constituents and staff, develop research and writing skills, and learn about the operations of a Senate office. Summer internships usually run from May through August but can be adjusted to fit student schedules. Interns receive a stipend, and the office helps ensure that interns can earn college credit as required by their universities.
Duties in the Washington, D.C., office include tracking legislation, researching bills, attending committee hearings and briefings, leading Capitol tours, answering phone calls from constituents, sorting mail, and providing legislative support. In South Dakota offices, interns research constituent inquiries, attend outreach events, assist on special projects, sort mail, and answer phone calls. When possible, internships may be tailored to match specific interests.
Rounds represents South Dakota as a U.S. Senator and has served since January 6, 2015 (official website). He holds membership on committees such as Appropriations and Armed Services (official website). In addition to offices in Washington, D.C., he maintains locations in Pierre, Rapid City, Sioux Falls, and Aberdeen (official website).
Students interested in applying can find more information at https://www.rounds.senate.gov/internships. The application deadline is March 15, 2026. For questions or further details about the internship program or application process, contact the Pierre office at 605-224-1450.
