An internship allows students and recent graduates an opportunity to get some “real world” experience in virtually any type of organization. Internships come in every variety, from paid to unpaid, and can last from six weeks to eighteen months. Some provide college credit, some do not. A Washington, D.C. internship can be fun and can open several doors in your career, political or otherwise.
Virtually every industry and trade association lobbies the Congress on issues important to their organization. If you are interested in science, engineering, environment or energy, there are organizations here that fit your interest. You don’t have to be a “political geek” to intern in Washington.
Your experience as a Youth Tour participant or member of the NRECA Youth Leadership Council may have sparked an interest in pursuing an internship in Washington. In fact, a number of former Youth Tour participants have found their way back to the nation’s capital as interns, congressional staffers and even as a United States Senator. Remember, sometimes who you know can be as important as what you know.
There are a number of internships in Washington, D.C. for you to explore, but don’t wait until the last minute to apply. Plan your internship at least six-months to a year in advance. Below, we have listed a few of the many Washington internship possibilities: