Where Are They Now? Jonathan Burman, 1985 Session Assistant

When did you participate in the Undergraduate Session Assistants Program or Senate Fellowship?

I was an Undergraduate Session Assistant in 1985

Which Senate office were you placed in during your internship?

Senator Dean Skelos’ Office. He was an incoming, freshman Senator at the time.

Briefly describe your responsibilities/day-to-day activities in your internship office placement.

I was responsible for preparing the daily calendar on Session days (i.e., keeping track of which organizations supported/opposed bills slated for action on the Senate floor). I also responded to constituent requests and inquiries.

Where are you working now? Briefly describe your responsibilities/day-to-day activities in your current place of employment.

I have been working for the NYS Education Department for the past 20 years. In that time I have worked as an attorney in the Department’s Office of Counsel and as the Assistant Director of the Office of Communications. I currently split my time between both offices.

What did you learn from participating in the New York State Senate internship programs that you have been able to carry over to your new position?

I learned that public service in State government can be a rewarding career where you have an opportunity to improve the lives of fellow New Yorkers in real and significant ways.