Hinckley Institute of Politics

Hinckley Institute of Politics Furthering civic engagement through non-partisan student internships, forums, events, and classes at the University of Utah.

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Interested in an internship at the Utah State Capitol but dont have space for a full-time commitment in your schedule? O...
10/02/2026

Interested in an internship at the Utah State Capitol but dont have space for a full-time commitment in your schedule? Our local intern program has lots of great part-time options with government entities that provide a valuable experience.

Here is what one local intern has to say about her current experience:

"My name is Sydney Uher and I am currently the intern for the office of the Lieutenant Governor! Some of the highlights of my time here so far include sitting in on meetings held by the Lieutenant Governor, getting to work in the State Capitol building, and learning first hand the inner workings of the processes behind elections, authentications, lobbyists, and notaries. This opportunity has allowed me to explore my interest in public office and gain experience within the field itself."
Apply today and learn more at Hinckley.utah.edu

Curious about an internship abroad?  🛫🌎Charlie just returned from a global internship in Vietnam and here is his takeawa...
09/24/2026

Curious about an internship abroad?  🛫🌎

Charlie just returned from a global internship in Vietnam and here is his takeaway: 

"To any student considering this program, I would strongly encourage you to take the leap and go. You’ll come home with professional experience, lifelong memories, and a much bigger view of the world." 

"My summer in Hanoi as a Hinckley Global Intern was one of the most formative experiences of my life. I was given real responsibility from day one with Paxlaw (a host office that advises businesses on investment, mergers, acquisitions, and market expansion). I learned to manage complex research projects on my own, verify sources carefully, and communicate across a language barrier - skills that have directly shaped my decision to pursue law school. Seeing how an international firm operates in one of the fastest growing economies in the world gave me a perspective I simply couldn’t have gotten in a classroom."

"Outside the office, Vietnam showed me everything it had to offer and more. I explored Hanoi’s incredible neighborhoods, rode the beautiful Ha Giang Loop through the northern mountains, hiked the misty valleys of Sapa, explored the limestone karsts of Ninh Binh, stayed in a boat-access village on Cat Ba Island, and cruised both Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay. I watched the international fireworks festival in Da Nang, wandered the lantern lit streets of Hoi An, and finished my summer in the south with the Mekong Delta canals, the Cu Chi war tunnels, and the beaches of Mui Ne. Every trip deepened my appreciation for Vietnam’s incredible landscapes, history, food, and the warmth of its people." 

Thank you Charlie for sharing your incredible experience with us! We can't wait to see what you do next.

Ready to chart your own path as a Hinckley Global intern? Start your application today and we can help you identify the perfect location and host office.

Hinckely.utah.edu/global

Join us for the 2026 Congressional Series. This unique series of events provides university students and community the o...
09/24/2026

Join us for the 2026 Congressional Series.
This unique series of events provides university students and community the opportunity to hear from current members of U.S. Congress.
Held at the Hinckley Institute of Politics, room 2018. Food provided.

Sept 24th, 2pm:
Representative Blake Moore

Sept 29th 12pm:
Representative Mike Kennedy

Oct 6th 12pm:
Representative Burgess Owens

Oct 19th 1:30pm:
Senator John Curtis

In partnership with Sutherland Institute

More info: Hinckley.utah.edu

Why does Nevaeh recommend a Hinckley Legislative Internship? 🏛️Nevaeh is a Political Science major with minors in Sociol...
09/15/2026

Why does Nevaeh recommend a Hinckley Legislative Internship? 🏛️
Nevaeh is a Political Science major with minors in Sociology and African American Studies. She participated in a legislative internship through the Hinckley Institute last spring.

“The experience is one I couldn’t be more grateful for. One of the biggest things I took away is that understanding the unique language of the legislative session is a superpower, no matter who you are. It opens doors professionally, but it also gives you the ability to help others understand the process of policy making and become more civically engaged in the issues that affect their communities.”

And her biggest takeaway?
“The program offers a once-in-a-lifetime view of the way our state government functions and how policy affects everyone and everything.”

Spring 2027 Legislative Internship applications are due today, September 15!
Have questions or need a little more time?
Please email [email protected]
👉 Learn more and apply through the link in our bio.

September Alumni Spotlight: Erin Kucic 🌟 Erin graduated in 2010 with bachelor's degrees in Political Science and Strateg...
09/14/2026

September Alumni Spotlight: Erin Kucic 🌟

Erin graduated in 2010 with bachelor's degrees in Political Science and Strategic Communication. Her college career serves as an inspiration for future students looking to maximize their college experience. During her time at the University, she participated in three Hinckley internships that took her from local political campaigns in Salt Lake City to Washington, D.C., and ultimately to Chiang Mai, Thailand working with the Burma Volunteer Project. 

 Catching up with Erin today as she reflects on her career trajectory:

"Since graduating, I’ve built a career in public service spanning education, workforce development, and higher education. I began with Teach For America, where I was a corps member and K-5 special education teacher in South Carolina. I later earned my Master of Science in Public Policy and Management (MSPPM) from Carnegie Mellon University where I strengthened my skills in data analysis and program management.

In roles with organizations like Partner4Work and Educational Data Systems, Inc., I managed large-scale workforce programs, partnered with employers and training providers, and helped connect individuals to career opportunities. Today, as an Academic Program Manager at CMU, I support the MSPPM program, working with students who are in the same position I once was and who are passionate about social impact, data analysis, and public service.

This role feels especially meaningful because it comes full circle. The opportunities I received through Hinckley helped launch my career, and now I have the privilege of creating similar experiences for students pursuing paths in public service. It’s incredibly rewarding to help lift up the next generation of leaders who will go on to make an impact in their communities and beyond."

We're so proud of Erin and the many ways she is helping the next generation succeed!

The Hinckley Institute team felt truly lucky to host author McKay Coppins with the The University of Utah. Drawing on hi...
09/11/2026

The Hinckley Institute team felt truly lucky to host author McKay Coppins with the The University of Utah. Drawing on his recent cover story for The Atlantic , "Sucker: My Year as a Degenerate Gambler,” Coppins discussed his personal experience with the world of sports betting and the broader implications for what he terms, "The Casinofication of America". Attendees leaned forward, listening intently as Coppins presented a deep dive into the rapid rise of online sports betting and what it reveals about sports, technology, politics, and American culture. It was a fascinating topic that will undoubtedly continue to be debated across the country.
 
Thank you to everyone who helped us produce this great event and sincerest thanks to McKay Coppins and team for your visit!


It was so fun to reconnect with U at our open house! Introducing students to the amazing internship opportunities availa...
09/03/2026

It was so fun to reconnect with U at our open house! Introducing students to the amazing internship opportunities available at the Hinckley Institute is such a fulfilling part of our mission.
A huge thank you to our crew of student helpers and Hinckley intern alumni who answered all the questions and shared their own experiences.
If you didn't get a chance to come by, or you have additional questions, please stop by our offices! Gardner Commons, room 2018. 


August alumni spotlight!Blake Hrubes graduated from the University of Utah in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in Interna...
08/28/2026

August alumni spotlight!
Blake Hrubes graduated from the University of Utah in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in International Studies. During his time as a student, he fully embraced the opportunities available to him and tackled impressive challenges.

Among his many successes, he completed a hinckley global internship with the Southern Institute of Social Sciences in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

He credits this experience as being transformative both personally and professionally. The cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and professional skills Hrubes developed through the Hinckley Institute continue to shape his work today.

Great job Blake! We are so proud of you!

Visit hinckley.utah.edu/alumni-spotlight to read more of his story and learn about some of our other fantastic alumni!


U Alumni

08/26/2026

We’re looking forward to another amazing academic year as students return to campus.
Join us Wednesday, Sept 2nd from 12pm - 2pm for our Student Open House. This is the best way for students to learn about what the Hinckley Institute has to offer and snag some free pizza. Come learn about potential internships, classes, forums, and the other fun events we host throughout the year. It’s never too late or too early to start adding great experiences to your resume and get more engaged on campus.



Hinckley Alumni Summer Spotlight:Thaiss Del Rio Sanchez was a stellar student who graduated with bachelor’s degrees in b...
08/25/2026

Hinckley Alumni Summer Spotlight:

Thaiss Del Rio Sanchez was a stellar student who graduated with bachelor’s degrees in both Sociology and Political Science as part of the class of 2022.

During her time at the University of Utah, she participated in multiple internships through the Hinckley Institute that helped define her professional path and affirm her commitment to community-centered leadership.

She excelled as a legislative intern in 2021, assisting Senator Escamilla as the Legislature navigated the pandemic and worked to keep the government running smoothly.

Today, Thaiss serves as Community Outreach Liaison for the PROG Foundation's Development Center in West Valley City.
Way to go Thaiss! We're so proud of your journey!



U Alumni

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260 S. Central Campus Drive
Salt Lake City, UT
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Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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