At KHS, every junior is required to take political science, learning from reading from books, listening to the chalk talks, and taking tests.

However, two seniors — Ben Roof and Hannah Smith — will be going beyond the books and actually getting real-life experience in politics as interns of the Michigan Capitol for the summer.

On April 21, senior Roof traveled to the Capitol with his bowling team to be recognized for their accomplishments this year.

Even though Roof had been to the Capitol before, he was still amazed by the building. He toured the governor’s ceremonial office where he signs bills into laws, and toured the House and Senate floors, which most people do not get to see.

While on the tour, Mr. Steve Peruski, chief of staff for Rep. Pam Faris (D-Clio), told the bowlers that internships were available and asked those who were interested to apply.

Roof knew instantly he wanted to apply for the internship.

“I feel like it will provide some insight into politics, which has always been something that I have been fascinated in,” Roof said.

Roof had submitted a resume and was then set up for a telephone interview with Peruski. During the interview, Peruski asked Roof how he was with taking calls, handling hard situations, and talking to people.

The interview was successful and Roof was informed he was hired for his internship, which will start June 18.

Smith heard about Roof’s internship and knew it would be the perfect opportunity to help her before heading off to college, especially since she has been accepted into the James Madison College, an honors college for political science students at Michigan State University.

“I’m fairly new to politics, so this internship should help me out a lot,” Smith said. “We’re not sitting in a class behind a book. This is real life stuff we’re dealing with being on the (House) floor and the fact that I will be there witnessing and helping out is awesome.”

Just like Roof, Smith had to submit a resume and have a phone interview.

“I was really nervous since the last time I had an interview it went really bad,” Smith said. “But this one went really well. It went so well that at the end of my interview he said I got the job.”

Roof and Hannah are excited to learn from their internships and hope to create networks that will help them in the future.

Mr. Andy Nester, political science teacher, was thrilled to hear the news of his former students.

“This on-the-job training will propel them into other positions as Ben works through a law degree and Hannah a political science degree,” Nester said. “I am proud of the determination and courage to stretch themselves when it can be easier to take the summer off before entering college.  These two young people are future stars. They represent the finest Kearsley has to offer.”

UPDATE: After the story was published, Roof’s start date changed to June 18. This story has been updated to reflect that change.