2 answers
Vincent
Student
Harmony, NJ
1
Question
Updated
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What are some general tips for getting Political Science-related internships?
I'm going for a Political Science track in college, and I've been struggling with finding relevant internship opportunities. Any advice?
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2 answers
Chris Carrillo
Management Consultant
3
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Chris’s Answer
Morning Vincent - for any internship, don't underestimate the power of networking. Many opportunities may never be posted at all. Networking and reaching out to individuals can really open doors to things you did not know might exist.
First, understand who you might be interested in working with, or what you'd like to do (you may already have a good idea). If not, first - use AI to help narrow in on entities you might want to work with (e.g. are you looking for something at the state and local level? Federal level in DC? Think tank/policy group? Academia?). Then use LinkedIn to search for those groups and filter for individuals from your alma mater you can reach out to have coffee chats with. Craft a nice succinct message asking for 15 minutes with them, mentioning that you are looking to get into XYZ field, and you are seeking advice.
In those chats, come prepared with a few questions, be eager, open to learn, and make it easy on those individuals to help you.
I think the biggest changes in my career have been as a result of me asking for advice and for help through networking. Best of luck! You're already doing the right thing asking here.
First, understand who you might be interested in working with, or what you'd like to do (you may already have a good idea). If not, first - use AI to help narrow in on entities you might want to work with (e.g. are you looking for something at the state and local level? Federal level in DC? Think tank/policy group? Academia?). Then use LinkedIn to search for those groups and filter for individuals from your alma mater you can reach out to have coffee chats with. Craft a nice succinct message asking for 15 minutes with them, mentioning that you are looking to get into XYZ field, and you are seeking advice.
In those chats, come prepared with a few questions, be eager, open to learn, and make it easy on those individuals to help you.
I think the biggest changes in my career have been as a result of me asking for advice and for help through networking. Best of luck! You're already doing the right thing asking here.
Marchonie Derosier
IT Transformation
6
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Marchonie’s Answer
Thank you for your question. It's great to explore opportunities for internships. You might want to check your county's website for any listings. The American Political Science Association also has a section for internships, so keep an eye on it for new openings.
Consider looking into think tanks and policy institutes. For example, the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C., offers internships where you can work with top policy experts. The Bipartisan Policy Center has a summer program with a stipend for rising juniors and seniors. The American Enterprise Institute provides semester-long internships focused on research and policy.
You can also explore advocacy and non-profit organizations like The Borgen Project, which offers remote internships in advocacy and public policy, perfect for gaining experience in grassroots and legislative lobbying.
Lastly, don't forget to check out consumer rights organizations and job boards like Prosple for more opportunities. Keep searching, and you will surely find a solid opportunity.
Consider looking into think tanks and policy institutes. For example, the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C., offers internships where you can work with top policy experts. The Bipartisan Policy Center has a summer program with a stipend for rising juniors and seniors. The American Enterprise Institute provides semester-long internships focused on research and policy.
You can also explore advocacy and non-profit organizations like The Borgen Project, which offers remote internships in advocacy and public policy, perfect for gaining experience in grassroots and legislative lobbying.
Lastly, don't forget to check out consumer rights organizations and job boards like Prosple for more opportunities. Keep searching, and you will surely find a solid opportunity.