State Senator Bill Beagle...
The LSC Fellowship Opens the Door to Public Service  
February  3, 2012 

The start of every new year marks a time when scholars throughout our area return to their respective college campuses to begin their final semester of study.  For so many, this time proves overwhelming in having to decide on a logical next step.  The standard practice of preparing for finals and revising papers is quickly replaced with the need to draft résumés and apply for jobs. 

Since coming to Columbus to serve as your state senator, I have become aware of an excellent opportunity for young people hoping to begin a life in public service.   

Each year, the Ohio Legislative Service Commission (LSC) sponsors a Legislative Fellowship program for 24 college graduates.  The program is a 13-month paid professional fellowship that places individuals in a variety of positions in the General Assembly.  Fellows are assigned to work in each of the four legislative caucuses (House Republican, House Democrat, Senate Republican, and Senate Democrat), the Legislative Service Commission research and fiscal departments, and the Ohio Channel.  In addition, fellows attend numerous seminars and events throughout the year that are designed to provide them with an understanding of the various sectors of state government. 

For nearly five decades, the LSC Fellowship Program has served as an entry way into state service for future legislators, congressmen, and even our current Governor of Ohio.  In working with members of the General Assembly, fellows are often asked to research the many issues facing Ohio, write speeches and memos, and act as a liaison between the official’s Statehouse office and constituents back in the district.  Through more than a year of experiential learning, fellows are provided with the know-how to pursue a variety of avenues in public service or government relations. 

I would encourage anyone with an interest in public service to look into the LSC Fellowship program.  The program offers a unique opportunity to get involved in the daily operations of Ohio’s state government and provides its participants with invaluable experience, networking, and professional development. 

For more information on the application process, visit www.lsc.state.oh.us/fellowship.  The deadline to apply is April 1, and all applications should be mailed to Ohio Legislative Service Commission, Fellowship Coordinator, Vern Riffe Center, 77 South High Street, Ninth Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215-6136.