Political Science Internships

Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Assistant

Reagan Long

During the 2025–2026 academic year, I am working in the Montana Governor’s Office as an Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Assistant, a role I pursued to further my political science and pre‑law studies with my goal of becoming an agricultural lawyer to serve Montana’s rural communities. In this position, I attend interagency meetings with the Departments of Agriculture and Livestock, DNRC, DEQ, and FWP; review proposed rules and legal drafts; prepare internal policy briefings; and communicate updates across the Governor’s cabinet and staff. I have contributed to ongoing policy initiatives by reviewing complex information into summaries that support cabinet‑level discussions and stakeholder meetings. This experience has strengthened my analytical abilities, professional communication, teamwork, and time‑management skills while deepening my understanding of how legal frameworks shape agricultural issues. Adapting to the pace of state government operations and navigating differing agency perspectives has taught me how to ask better questions, manage various priorities, and efficiently handle dense legal material. Overall, this internship has been a formative step in both my academic and professional development, reinforcing my commitment to agricultural law and preparing me to better serve Montana’s producers and natural resource stewards in the future.

MT Supreme Court Chief Justice Research Intern

Ella Kuenzli

During the past year, I participated in two internships that allowed me to gain hands-on experience in both judicial administration and criminal law. I first interned with the Montana Supreme Court, conducting research for the Chief Justice on enacted legislation affecting the Judicial Branch, as well as analyzing different budgeting models used in judicial administration. This role strengthened my legal research, policy analysis, and writing skills, and gave me insight into how legislative decisions shape the functioning of courts at the state level.

Legal Intern

I also interned with a local Helena law firm, where I shadowed attorneys in court, managed and reviewed sensitive legal documents, and observed client advocacy in practice. Together, these experiences deepened my understanding of the legal system from both institutional and practitioner perspectives and solidified my interest in pursuing a career in law. Both of my internships were great experiences where I not only gained knowledge but also developed significant professional relationships that will benefit me in my future.