Internship provides first-hand view of Capitol

Spending a week paging at the state Capitol helped spark a Plainview High School graduate’s interest in government—and that interest has come full circle, bringing her back to the Capitol to serve as college intern with Sen. Frank Simpson’s office during the 2014 legislative session.

Madison Hobson is a junior at the University of Oklahoma.  A 2011 graduate of Plainview High School, she said the selection of a major in public affairs was really inspired by her experience paging for Rep. Pat Ownbey, R-Ardmore, during her junior year.

“I’m interested in the political process and how government agencies run.  It’s not only about the making of laws, but public policy—the things that really impact people,” Hobson said.

Simpson, R-Springer, said Madison has had the opportunity to observe committee hearings, meetings with constituents and organizations, and has been extended floor privileges to the chamber during her internship.  Simpson also arranged for Madison to meet Gov. Mary Fallin.

“Madison is really getting a great understanding of the legislative process and how working in government really is a public service,” Simpson said.  “She’s representing our district and OU well, and it is a pleasure having her intern with us here in the Senate.”

Hobson, the daughter of Mike and Jacque Hobson of Ardmore, said she’s been impressed by what she’s seen and learned during her internship this semester.

“Our lawmakers really do have the state’s best interest in their agendas—a lot of people don’t realize that.  There’s a lot of hard work and a great deal of integrity,” Hobson said.  “They do in four months what some states take a year to do.”

Hobson said once she completes her undergraduate degree, she plans to attend law school.

“Eventually I would like to take my knowledge of the law and public affairs and use that on behalf of a nonprofit organization.”