Internship at Niskanen Center: Overview

Position Type: Internship
Duration: Available for Spring, Summer, and Fall Semesters
Location: United States (must be authorized to work in the US)
Stipend: Up to $1,000 per month
Fields: Public Policy, Research, Federal Affairs, Communications

Key Qualifications for Interns:

Visionary Thinkers: Candidates should embrace liberal democracy principles, social insurance policies, market competition, and strengthening state capacity.
Ideologically Open: Applicants must value diverse perspectives and be open to cross-ideological collaboration.
Collaborative Problem Solvers: A fast-paced, team-oriented environment is essential. Ideal candidates should enjoy cooperation, discussion, and continuous learning.
Interest in Public Policy: Applicants should have a passion for shaping policies that foster prosperity, opportunity, and human flourishing.

What You Will Gain:

Engage with Thought Leaders: Interns will collaborate with policymakers and scholars across the political spectrum to create actionable policy solutions.
Professional Development: Participate in workshops and networking events aimed at developing skills and expanding your professional network.
Making an Impact: Interns will work on projects addressing critical issues such as economic insecurity, climate change, immigration reform, and mass incarceration.

Internship Benefits:

Stipend: All Niskanen Center interns receive up to $1,000 per month to support their work.
Professional Development: Interns will gain direct exposure to policy research and communications, which will help shape their career in public policy or related fields.
Networking Opportunities: Opportunities to meet with leaders and professionals across political and governmental sectors.

Important Dates:

Spring Semester 2026:

• Dates: January 13, 2026 – May 1, 2026
• Application Deadline: November 9, 2025
• Notification Deadline: December 12, 2025

Summer Semester 2026:

• Dates: June 2, 2026 – August 7, 2026
• Application Deadline: March 8, 2026
• Notification Deadline: April 3, 2026

Fall Semester 2026:

• Dates: September 8, 2026 – December 4, 2026
• Application Deadline: July 12, 2026
• Notification Deadline: August 7, 2026

Documents Required for Application:

1. Resume: A current resume detailing your academic and professional experiences.
2. Policy Department Interests: Identify no more than two policy departments you are interested in.
3. Writing Sample: A writing sample that does not exceed 3,000 words.
4. Personal Statement: An explanation of why you are applying to Niskanen Center, not exceeding 300 words.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step):

1. Prepare Required Documents: Gather your resume, writing sample, personal statement, and list of policy department interests.
2. Submit Your Application:
   • Visit the Niskanen Center’s internship application page (linked for each semester).
   • Fill out the application form and upload all required documents.
3. Review and Submit: Double-check your application to ensure all information is correct and complete. Submit your application by the deadline.
4. Wait for Notification: Niskanen Center will notify you of the outcome of your application on a rolling basis. Be sure to keep track of the final notification deadline for each semester.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

1. Is the internship open to international applicants?
   Yes, but international applicants must be authorized to work in the United States during the internship period.
2. Can I apply for more than one semester?
   Yes, you can apply for different semesters, but be sure to meet the respective deadlines.
3. What are the expectations during the internship?
   Interns are expected to contribute to policy research, communications, and federal affairs projects, as well as attend workshops and networking events.
4. Can I apply if I am still in school?
   Yes, the internship is open to current students as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and can work during the internship period.

Niskanen Center Internship Accomplishments:

Past interns have had the opportunity to:

• Lead research projects related to coalition-building in the climate department.
• Co-write and publish policy briefs with senior staff.
• Contribute blog posts cited by major publications like the Washington Post and Washington Examiner.
• Manage social media accounts, including Instagram, for the Niskanen Center.
• Develop content calendars for the Center’s communication efforts.

Where Are They Now? Notable Alumni:

Interns who have gone on to significant careers:

• Master’s in Public Policy program at UC Irvine.
• Fulbright Scholar.
• Regulatory and Government Affairs Lead at Analytical Space.
• Editorial Associate at SmithBucklin.
• Health Policy Analyst at the Niskanen Center.
• Immigration Policy Fellow at the Niskanen Center.
• Policy analysts at leading organizations like McKinsey, Booz Allen Hamilton, and MSNBC.

Conclusion:

The Niskanen Center offers a dynamic and impactful internship experience for individuals passionate about shaping policy solutions for the future. Through hands-on experience, exposure to thought leaders, and professional development, Niskanen interns make a lasting impact on public policy discussions and gain the skills necessary for a successful career in the public sector.

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