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Why does The Center for Democracy recruit interns?

To help carry out its programs, the Center recruits volunteer interns, most of whom are undergraduate students with a strong interest in international affairs and/or politics. The Center hopes to provide its interns with exposure to the operations of a non-profit organization focusing on international affairs, and its interactions within the Washington and world communities.

What advantages does an internship with The Center for Democracy offer?

Due to the small size of the Center, interns can gain substantive practical experience in the international arena they may not receive at a larger organization. An internship with The Center for Democracy allows students to complement their academic studies by developing professional office skills, receiving exposure to international programs, and gaining insight into the workings of Washington.

What activities do Center interns take part in?

The Center's interns play an important role in the functioning of the office. In addition to the normal Washington intern clerical tasks (faxing, photocopying, running errands, etc.), interns have a unique opportunity to work closely with program staff to assist with implementation of Center projects. Tasks include conducting research on various topics related to international affairs, monitoring Congressional hearings, attending lectures, translating and/or editing documents, aiding in conference planning, and assisting with foreign delegation visits.

What qualifications does The Center for Democracy require of its interns?

Undergraduate students (or graduate students lacking office experience) are best suited for an internship at The Center for Democracy. While most interns are studying international affairs/ relations, area studies, political science, economics, or history, students of all majors are invited to apply. All that is required is an interest in international affairs and the Center's programming work. Additionally, proficiency in Spanish, Russian, French, an Asian language, particularly Mandarin or Indonesian, or another applicable language is helpful.

What is the duration of an internship at The Center for Democracy?

Internships can be full or part-time, but a minimum of fifteen hours per week is required. The duration of the internships can be flexible, and they are available throughout the year. However, most interns choose their assignment to coincide with the spring, summer or fall period. Summer interns generally work full-time.

Are internships paid and does The Center for Democracy provide housing for its interns?

Internships are unpaid volunteer positions. However, the Center does provide monthly reimbursement of public transportation costs to and from the office. Although the Center does not provide housing for interns, we will offer advice on how to find temporary housing in the Washington, DC area to those selected for internships.

How do I apply for an internship with The Center for Democracy?

To apply, please mail, email or fax a cover letter and resume to the attention of the Internship Coordinator. In the cover letter, applicants must specify their dates of availability and the number of hours per week they would like to work if less than full-time.

Applications submitted before the following dates will receive priority consideration:
Spring Term November 15
Summer Term    March 30
Fall Term June 30

For additional information about the current projects of The Center for Democracy, please consult the rest of our web site. Questions regarding the internship program may be directed to the Intern Coordinator at . The Center for Democracy's fax number is .