HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. – During a recent committee meeting day, Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R-18th LD) had an opportunity to interact with her new district office summer intern, Nathan Blank. Blank is a resident of Huntington Station and a student at SUNY Albany, where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and Management and a Master of Arts in International Affairs. Blank is also participating in the Suffolk County Legislature’s Legislative Page Program.
The Page Program provides college-aged students with an opportunity to see and learn the ins and outs of the legislative process at the county level. Some of the activities include but are not limited to attending committee and general meetings, participating in a mock legislative session, in addition to spending time in their assigned legislator’s district as an intern.
“The education in government that these students receive in the Page Program is something that really can’t be learned in a classroom,” said Bontempi. “This is a real-world way to introduce the next generation to the wide variety of career opportunities in public service.”
At the district office level in Huntington, Blank will learn about its operations and etiquette – skills that are transferrable to any professional setting. Perhaps the most interesting part of his district office work will be his immersion into various local issues and performing basic constituent services. Of course, there will also be plenty of opportunities for him to hone his writing and researching skills.
“Internships are a fantastic way to acquire the skills and experience that are so vital to a young person’s resume,” added Bontempi. “In today’s job market, to be competitive you have to distinguish yourself in a positive way, and the Page Program does just that.”
Individuals interested in being a part of the Page Program next year are strongly encouraged to learn more about it at: https://www.scnylegislature.us/895/Page-Program.