Testimonial
“Working for OLA has significantly enhanced my professional and academic development. As a student worker, I had meaningful projects that furthered the analytical skills I gained in school. There was something new to learn every day working for OLA, both through my projects and from my colleagues. OLA was incredibly supportive of me, and provided flexibility that led to success in both the workplace and the classroom.”
Drew Sullivan
Student Worker Program
Introduction
Special Reviews student workers gain professional experience investigating allegations concerning the possible misuse of state money and other public resources. As an integral member of our team, student workers participate fully in the process of designing, conducting, and summarizing research on a wide variety of topics. Research tasks vary according to interest and experience, but often include interviews, data analysis, and/or document reviews.
Minimum Qualifications
To be considered, a candidate must be a student working toward a bachelor’s or master’s degree—with anticipated graduation in the fall of 2026 or spring of 2027—in accounting, business, economics, finance, the social sciences, public policy, or another relevant field. A candidate must also have:
Strong writing skills, including experience analyzing complex information and summarizing it simply and clearly in writing.
Demonstrated attention to detail.
Training or experience in accounting and auditing OR training or experience in one or more research methods, such as:
Data organization and quantitative analysis
Interviews
Literature reviews
Legal analysis
Proficiency in Microsoft programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access).
Experience working independently and as part of a team.
The ability to work effectively with people who have a diverse range of perspectives.
The ability to conduct objective, nonpartisan research on complicated topics.
Preferred Qualifications
Training or experience in critically evaluating compliance with legal requirements, including state and federal statutes, laws, and rules.
Training or experience collecting information through interviews and written inquiries.
Training or experience cleaning and critically analyzing large demographic, economic, and/or financial data sets.
Knowledge of state government and the legislative process.
Experience obtaining and handling sensitive information.
Experience interacting with the public verbally and in writing about sensitive or controversial issues.
