The Assembly GRADUATE INTERNSHIP provides a professional development opportunity for 10-15 qualified applicants to serve as full-time staff during legislative session, assisting in policy analysis, legislative research, communications and constituent services. Graduate Scholars have the opportunity to develop their understanding of the legislative process and New York State government, as well as apply their ideas and research skills in the legislative process. Graduate Interns are required to attend Issue Forums, staff training sessions and workshops designed to take theory into practice. These sessions will apply the concepts learned in academic programs to the work of a legislative office. In turn, each Graduate Interns leads a group of approximately 10 undergraduates enrolled in the Assembly's Session Intern Program, helping them apply their academic coursework to the practice of legislative work. This "Practicum" component of the program culminates in Graduate Interns leading the undergraduates in staging a series of "Mock Legislative Budget Hearings" in mid-February.

The Internship affords a unique opportunity with many of its participants moving to permanent positions in the Assembly, other government agencies, or firms practicing public affairs in the nonprofit or private sectors.