“ Session work can be intense but is very rewarding. You'll quickly bond with your colleagues into an extended family. Learning how the government actually works is a cool experience. Five months will go by quickly but the experiences you'll have and the people you'll meet will always stay with you.”

“ ...I learned much more than I ever expected to about our state government as well as how much work goes in behind the scenes to serve the people of Hawaii. It has been incredibly fulfilling to be a part of such a hardworking, enthusiastic team and I hope that the upcoming session hires will feel the same.”

“Session employees are exposed to a wealth of information that shape our state policies. No course of study can replace that invaluable first-hand experience.”

“I learned so much about the inner workings of Hawaii state government from working as a legislative assistant. It's great to be a part of the process and not just an outside grumbler. You see how hard the legislators work to balance all the different interests. It's hard to make a law and is a huge collaborative effort.”

“The experience provides great insights into how process, policy, and politics intersect – you don’t get that in law school.”

“I feel much more empowered and responsible. It was a pleasure to follow the legislative process and learn how change happens (or doesn’t). I look forward to sharing what I learned with my community.”

“Working at the Hawaii State Legislature made my previous coursework pertaining to government and Hawaii history come to life!”

“I was able to meet many legislators and put a face, personality and a story on the names that come across the news headlines…working at the Capitol has shown me how a group of people with differing agendas can come together to make the best of the limited session time for the good of the people of Hawaii …The skills and relationships I’ve gathered here will invariably be of significant benefit in the future.”