Who wouldn’t want to intern in the world’s most famous capital! By participating in the Global Experiences’ summer internship program in Washington, DC, you can explore the epicenter of US government and home to icons of American democracy and culture. It is a great location for both US citizens and international students to gain unparalleled work experience in a wide range of professional areas.
As a city populated by just under one million people (with thousands of tourists from all over the globe visitng each year), Washington DC is dominated by national and international institutions such as the Smithsonian Museum, the US Capitol, the White House, countless businesses, lobbying organizations, and many international and domestic non-governmental organizations. Within this diverse and powerful city, we will develop an internship for you that best meets your personal and professional goals.
Washington, DC
Programs Includes
Our comprehensive internship program in Washington, DC provides much more than just your customized guaranteed internship. We focus on matching you with the best employer so you have a great practical work experience but we also include a range of other program components to make sure you have an excellent overall experience.
Guranteed Custom Internship Placement
Global Experiences guarantees placements to all participants accepted into its internship programs. Unlike traditional recruitment companies, we work with each applicant on a one-to-one basis to understand their talents, expectations and match them with the best employer in their prospective career field. Most placements are unpaid with some offering a small stipend. By getting to know each individual applicant, learning of their academic background, career objectives, language proficiency (where relevant) and overall expectations we are able to place each individual in a work environment that will help them gain valuable work experience. We help each prospective intern create an effective resume, professionally prepare for an interview with potential employers, and psychologically prepare for their program.
Housing
Participants in the Washington DC program will stay at the George Washington University student halls of residence in single rooms. The housing is in a great location close to all of the internship sites and within easy access to the DC metro.
Excursions and Social Events
Global Experiences wants to you to work hard and also play hard with our excursion and activities calendar designed for you to make the most of your summer. Global Experiences offers regular happy hours to help you network with your peers in Washington DC’s vibrant social scene. You can travel independently or with fellow interns, using the Global Experiences travel resources to fill your social calendar. We also include excursions in each of our programs. Below are some examples.
Spirit of Washington Cruise
Start your program right by getting to know other Global Experiences students and enjoy the majestic sites of Washington, DC at night. Experience a luxurious evening aboard the Spirit of Washington for a three-hour escape to elegance and total entertainment experience only a true luxury cruising vessel can provide.
Washington Nationals Baseball Game
A stay in DC would not be complete without experiencing America’s favorite pastime. Join the crowd and other Global Experiences interns and cheer on your summer home team the Washington Nationals.
More than the Monuments Walking Tour
Begin your second weekend in DC with a walking tour of the city. Not only will you learn everything about the monuments, you'll learn about George Washington's love for dogs, how Hollywood was involved in WWII, why Abraham Lincoln wore a beard, why Benjamin Franklin electrocuted a turkey, what makes the President’s car so cool, why the White House is painted white, why French women loved Thomas Jefferson, which President invented the 7th inning stretch....And much, much, much more. This is not your average tour!
Tour the White House or US Capitol
Summer interns this past year were invited to the White House, a rare and unique opportunity to see inside the world’s most iconic building and center of US power. Participants in the 2010 summer program will also have the opportunity to visit the White House or the US Capitol building.
Event Dates
Spirit of Washington Cruise
June 15, 2011
Nats baseball game vs. Colorado
July 8, 2011
Monument Walking Tour
July 25, 2011
Capitol Tour
TBD
White House Tour
TBD
Other Important Inclusions
Optional academic credit provided by accredited US university. Inquire further with a program consultant
Travel Medical Insurance (Emergency Medical + Personal Liability) valid for a full year irrespective of your program length
On the ground support & 24/7 emergency contact
Information and assistance obtaining required visa (as necessary)
Welcome social event and orientation meeting
Extensive pre-departure information provided by program consultants and online portal
Dedicated program coordinator to prepare you for your program
Career Fields Available in
Washington, DC
We offer a wide range of career field options in
Washington, DC
. If you do not see yours listed below please contact a program consultant as we are able to find placements in other areas.
A leading public service organization that advances the art, science, teaching, and practice of public and non-profit administration, promotes the value of joining the public service profession, builds bridges among all who pursue public purposes, and provides networking and professional development opportunities to those committed to public service values.
Ideal Candidate: The ideal intern should have strong written and oral communication skills. This organization is open to students from a variety of majors. Excellent computer skills with strong attention to detail.
A lifestyle magazine for US Latina women is looking for a marketing/PR intern to assist in it's general marketing efforts. The intern will gain skills in traditional marketing tactics, as well as new age marketing and PR strategies.
Ideal Candidate: Excellent interpersonal communication skills, telephone, MS Word - mail merge, Excel, Power Point, Access, speak Spanish (preferred) and English fluently.
A National environmental NGO based in Washington is also looking for a PR or information technology intern to assist in their campaign outreach, social media utilization, and their general mobilization an recruitment efforts. Those who are PR or tech saavy with an interest in environmental issues will get to work on the front lines of environmental protection and a political capacity, while gaining practical skills in their field.
Ideal Candidate: PR, Journalism, or Creative Writing majors with good writing skills and an interest in environmental perservation. Knowledge or social media utilization is also required.
An active learning community with a rich history that spans nine decades, this organization's range of programs and services includes continuing education, academic programs, career development and certificate programs. They are looking for an intern to work on the Marketing/PR side of the organization, promoting their opportunities, organizing conferences, conducting research, interviewing alumni for testminials, and general promotion through traditional and new age advertising.
Ideal Candidate: International Relations, Government/Policy, or Marketing/PR students should apply. Advanced writing skills, MS Office Suit prociciency, and phone skills are all required.
This organization works to preserve families and maintain child health in the face of poverty and adversity.
Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate will have the desire to work on behalf of children and should be able to demonstrate that on his/her resume. Strong MS Office skills as well as an ability to work with fundraising and event planning is desired.
A national environmental NGO based in Washington is looking for an legislative intern to help in the fight for environmental policy reform! Students with a passion for environmental preservation and politics will find this placement to be an amazing introduction to legilative lobbying and research on the nation's capital. Government/Policy or environmental majors are encouraged to apply for this role, which will see them advocating in the halls of congress!
Ideal Candidate: 3rd year public policy, government, or environmental student with good research skills, writing ability, and a passion for environmental preservation.
This international environmental organization is based in Washington,D.C. with branch offices in Beijing, Shanghai, and Wuhan. Founded in 1996 by a group of scientists and professionals concerned with Chinas environmental problems, the company aims to ensure a healthy global environment and continued economic development by helping China solve its environmental problems. Interns conduct research on environmental issues related to China, contribute to research papers and reports, and attend some seminars/meetings, etc. in town and submit summary reports from these events.
Ideal Candidate: Public Policy, International Relations, or Environmental Advocacy majors with research and advanced writing skills should apply.
Any student with an interest in marketing, hospitality, or event planning will love this placement! A Women's lifestlye magazine that hosts all kinds of events is looking for an intern to assist their team. Interns will get to plan professional and social gatherings, work with clients, and see projects through from begining to end. The intern may also get to travel outside of the DC area to places like New York to help manage the events they put together!
Ideal Candidate: Excellent interpersonal communication skills, telephone, MS Word - mail merge, Excel, Power Point, Access, speak Spanish (preferred) and English fluently. Flexibility to work 20 hours a week.
This D.C.-based government affairs firm was founded with the primary goal of providing a select group of clients creative strategies to effectively represent them and their interests before the United States Government. Interns typically assist principals in lobbying work for various areas including life sciences, military and defense fields, conduct research on laws, bills and topics as needed by company clients, write reports in both one briefs and white paper format, participate in conference calls with clients, occasionally prepare white papers for submission to the Hill, assist with client communications, manage of data and moving clients' requests forward, etc.
Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate will have strong research and writing skills, familiarity with "The Hill" and the ability to assist with client communication and management of data
Public Policy with a Major Consumer Advocacy Group
Start Date
Length
The leading US Consumer Interest Group is looking for a policy intern to assist the organization's advocacy efforts. The intern will work with campaign and advocacy staff to demonstrate support for issues at the state and national level; writing and compiling reports. Over the course of the internship, you will learn the basics of a variety of issues, and then reach out to individuals, media outlets, organizations, and decision-makers to build visibility and gain their support.
Ideal Candidate: A strong commitment to consumer protection issues, strong writing and analytical skills , the ability to debate and speak persuasively, An enthusiasm for work in a fast paced, sometimes stressful atmosphere.
Legislative Experience with a Major Consumer Advocacy Group
Start Date
Length
The leading US Consumer Interest Group is looking for a legislative intern to assist the organization's advocacy efforts in the US Congress. The intern will work with staff to actually craft and advocate for legislation that pushes the organization's position in consumer protection. The intern tasks will vary, but will include writing and compiling reports. Over the course of the internship, the intern will learn the basics of a variety of issues, and experience life in the public policy and lobbying side of Washington DC.
Ideal Candidate: A strong commitment to consumer protection issues, strong writing and analytical skills , the ability to debate and speak persuasively, An enthusiasm for work in a fast paced, sometimes stressful atmosphere. An understanding of the American legislative branch is ideal.
Latino legal civil rights organization often described as the law firm of the Latino comunity that promotes social change through advocacy, communications, community education, and litigation in the areas of education, employment, immigrant rights, and political access.
Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate should come with coursework or work experience in humanities, liberal arts, policy, or politics. The intern will have interest in the Latino community but does not have to be bilingual.
Largest civil rights organization working on behalf of the LGBT community
Start Date
Length
This organization advocates on behalf of LGBT Americans, mobilizes grassroots efforts, and educates the public about LGBT issues
Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated commitment to the LGBT cause, a desire to continue this work on a professional level, and samples of your work.
Organization furthering the work of diplomacy worldwide
Start Date
Length
This organization reaches beyond the scope of traditional diplomacy by addressing ethnic conflict, tribal warfare, and religious hostilities.
Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate must have strong writing samples that reflect an understanding of diplomacy and/or a desire to work for an organization of this type. Preferred qualities: experience with fundraising or event planning, bilingual or multilingual, and strong MS Office skills.
A lifestyle magazine for US Latina women is looking for a Graphic Design intern to assist in the day to day production of the magazine. Interns will gain first-hand experience in design, page layout, and may even get to contribute directly to articles and features! Interns looking to gain experience in the competitive magazine industry are encouraged to apply.
Ideal Candidate: Excellent interpersonal communication skills, Grapic Design, Photoshop, Publisher, Power Point, speak Spanish (preferred) and English fluently.
The Provost's office of a historic and prestigious University in downtown Washington DC is looking for a tech savvy web developer to assist in the completion of an international education system. The school sends many students to China, and needs someone to help develop their system that will facilitate cross-border exchange. The intern will work with both the Provost and the IT department, gaining new tech skills and a large part in a very important project.
Ideal Candidate: At least 2 years of web development or programming experience. Work with MS Publisher is a must. Knowledge of Java, C++, and other languages is a plus.
Non profit dedicated to improving the juvenile justice system
Start Date
Length
A national campaign dedicated to ending the practice of trying, sentencing, and incarcerating children (under age 18) in the adult justice system and working to improve conditions within the juvenile justice system. Their cause works towards promoting a juvenile justice system that focuses emphasizing appropriate rehabilitative and educational services.hat
Ideal Candidate: This organization seeks a candidate that supports juvenile and criminal justice reform and issue campaign organization and management. The organization is committed to creating a fulfilling and rewarding internship experience. Interns are fully integrated into the office and can be expected to perform some basic administrative tasks.
Conservative, nonpartisan organization promoting transparency and accountability in government
Start Date
Length
This organization investigates and uncovers misconduct in government providing civil authorities the ability to criminally prosecute corrupt officials.
Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate will have a background in Political Science as well as strong writing samples and research skills.
This firms provides interns with firsthand, courtroom experience in Washington DC and neighboring Maryland. For those who qualify, this internship offers a glimpse into the American criminal justice system, and unmatched mentoring and connections. Interns will conduct research, assist in cases, and provide assistance to partners as needed.
Ideal Candidate: Students studying law with a criminal justice background and an interest in the US legal system are encouraged to apply. Great attitude necessary!
Participants in the Washington DC internship program are required to be 19-30 years old at the start of the program and have some relevant coursework in their preferred field of internship placement. Participants must also have a very high level of English necessary to participate in a university and professional setting.
Visa Eligibility
American citizens do not require a visa.
All students without U.S. citizenship wishing to participate in our U.S. programs must have a valid passport and obtain a J-1 Visa to legally participate provided you are currently an enrolled student or will be within 6 months of graduation upon beginning the program. Those requiring a J-1 visa will incur a visa and processing fee of $1200 in addition to the program costs, which are not imposed by Global Experiences but rather for the visa itself. You must advise your Program Consultant that you are an International student. Please inquire within for more information. Eligibility and acceptance is determined based on a completed application form and formal acceptance into the program. Some host employers may not be able to accept international students so please discuss your placement area prior to enrolling.
• Eligibility and acceptance is determined based on a completed application form and formal acceptance into the program.
Washington, DC
Internships Schedule
The following is a schedule of Dates & Fees for the
Washington, DC
internships.
We excel at matching each intern with the best employer by learning about YOU and YOUR expectations of your experience abroad. There is not another group or company that does this as well as Global Experiences.
Finding the career that is right for you is a journey that may last a lifetime. Global Experiences will help you identify your personal and professional interests and skills while affording you opportunity to apply those in a real world work environment.
We do not place you with just any company but rather walk you through a comprehensive consultation to understand your academic background, learning and career objectives, language proficiency (where relevant), and whether you are interested primarily in the cultural travel experience or the professional development opportunites available through your customized program. Getting to know you and understanding all of these variables helps us to identify the best internship for you that will best serve your needs and expectations.
Since we guarantee our internships, we will not accept you into our program unless we are confident we can find a suitable placement for you.We are generally able to let you know in our first contact with you whether you are a good candidate for our program.
Once you are accepted into the program and pay your program deposit we will immediately begin formalizing your internship placement. We will work with you to create an effective resume, prepare for an interview (required for many placements), and organize the documentation required to secure your visa. All participants will have access to a portal of pre-departure information that will help prepare you for your Global Experience.
Summary of Placement Process
Determine your program eligibility (see eligibility page)
Submit an inquiry form to connect with a program consultant
Submit application form as soon as possible for your preferred dates and pay $50 application fee
Receive acceptance into the program
Pay $1000 deposit to reserve your place in the program
Begin preparation process for internship and apply for your visa (as necessary)
Complete application steps and make final fee payment. Payment plans are available.
Arrive in Washington to start your program
Housing in
Washington, DC
Located in the heart of the Foggy Bottom district of Washington, DC, your accommodation is minutes away from DuPont Circle, Georgetown, and other downtown areas. You will find an unparalleled "neighborhood life" and social culture like nowhere else!
The mix of shopping, dancing, dining, entertainment, and nightlife within a mile radius adds to the experience of staying in the Foggy Bottom area. Our residence halls are also within close walking distance of the Kennedy Center, the State Department, and the National Mall, Excursions and Social Activities. They are clean, safe and you will share them with students from around the country and the world.
You will be close to everything the city has to offer while spending time with young and interesting people. What more could you ask for!
Academic Credit
Yes, you can earn academic credit for this program. There are two ways to obtain credit for a Global Experiences program; transfer credit from our foreign institutional partners or earn independent study credit from our US-based affiliate university, Eastern Washington University. One may also combine foreign transfer credit with independent study credit. The best credit option will be determined by your home university and academic advisor.
Name: Sabine
Company: Algonquin College
Field: Journalism
Testimonial: "My internship program in Washington, DC has completely changed my perspective on things and I feel like I really grew up. When I got back home I felt more confident about myself and my future. I know what I want and I know how to get there. Washington was a huge stepping stone for me."
Name: Nancy
Company: Siena College
Field: Environmental Science
Testimonial: "Interning in Washington, D.C. through Global Experiences was the best opportunity I had in my life. I worked for a non-profit Environmental Organization working to improve China’s environmental quality and I gained great experience by being able to attend meetings and do research on climate change. Not only did I have a great working experience but I also made friends that I will have for a lifetime and networked with many people. I would recommend anyone to take an internship through Global Experiences because the knowledge gained through working and networking, meeting new people, and being able to go to events was the truly one of the greatest experiences of my life and has helped me grow as a person."
Not only did I have a great working experience but I also made friends that I will have for a lifetime and networked with many people. I would recommend anyone to take an internship through Global Experiences."