EdVoices Externship Program

A hands-on, practical learning experience for students who want to understand and influence the policy process.

This program allows students ages 15-19 to learn more about policymaking in Minnesota and explore policy advocacy over four months—remotely and with a stipend to support participation. 

Applications for this program will open again in the fall. 

Harness your voice and fight for education justice. 

  • Gain professional skills while developing your voice as an advocate and leader.
  • Grow your knowledge of Minnesota policymaking.
  • Connect with Minnesota policymakers and education advocates.
  • Build a mini-portfolio of advocacy work.
  • Tackle issues you care about at the Capitol, right now.

Externship FAQ

Students will attend 1.5-hour workshops about once per month and work on a mini advocacy project throughout the program—setting a goal, thinking through an audience and how to reach them, and putting it into action. You’ll also create two pieces—in blog or video form—in support of your final project.

We know that you’ve got a lot going on, so outside of workshops, your project schedule is flexible.

Program Requirements

These requirements ensure opportunities for learning and reflection throughout the program. 

  1. Produce two issue-focused blogs, videos, or op-eds with brainstorming, production, editing, and distribution support from EdAllies’ Strategic Communication Director.
  2. Attend orientation, virtually.
  3. Attend four workshops designed to develop practical knowledge and skills. Each will be 1.5 hours. (Schedule TBD based on group availability.)
  4. Create a mini, issue-based advocacy campaign, leveraging your knowledge, skills, experiences, and voice as a young advocate and leader.
  5. Complete a final program evaluation.

Yes. Externs receive a stipend of $500, paid in four installments over the course of the program.

The program is four months, February 15 – June 10, 2022, throughout Minnesota’s 2022 legislative session.

Students between 16- and 19-years-old are eligible to participate. We’ll select up to 6 students to participate in this cohort.

Students should be nominated by an educator, program coordinator, community member, counselor, mentor, etc. The nomination form should take about 15 minutes to complete. Nominated students will then be invited to a brief interview.
Nominate a student

Yes, you can nominate yourself. Email avitt@edalliesmn.org if you’re interested.

2021 Program Timeline

Dates
Details

January 15, 2022

Nominations Open

January 31, 2022

Priority Deadline for Nominations

February 1 – 7, 2022

Student Interviews

February 8, 2022

Students Receive Offers

February 15 – June 10, 2022

Externships Take Place

Email aroethke@edalliesmn.org with questions.