Events and Communications Internship Program

This internship is designed for undergraduate upperclassmen and recent graduates interested in event management, communications, and public affairs in the context of national security and international relations. The program provides hands-on experience in event planning, institutional communications, and stakeholder engagement, while also preparing participants for IWP’s master’s degree programs.

Program Overview

As an Events and Communications intern, you will contribute directly to IWP’s institutional visibility and outreach by coordinating events, assisting with communications strategies, and supporting engagement efforts. Interns will help plan and execute academic lectures, policy discussions, and high-level institutional gatherings. They will also draft event communications, assist with promotional campaigns, and collaborate with staff to ensure seamless execution. This role blends practical event management with exposure to IWP’s academic environment, creating opportunities to develop skills while connecting with national security experts and practitioners. 

Intern Benefits

Upon successful completion of the Events and Communications Internship Program, participants gain preferential consideration for IWP’s master’s degrees. Eligible interns will also receive a $3,300 per semester scholarship, applicable toward tuition for the M.A. degree program. Additional merit-based scholarships are available. Interns will strengthen their professional portfolios by gaining experience in event execution, communications, and institutional outreach, while also developing networks with senior faculty and guest speakers. 

Key Responsibilities

Under the supervision of IWP’s Events and Communications staff, interns will: 

• Assist in planning, coordinating, and executing institutional events, lectures, and conferences. 
• Draft and distribute event announcements, invitations, and follow-up communications. 
• Support logistical arrangements including guest registration, seating, catering, and A/V coordination. 
• Provide on-site support during events, including ushering, guest assistance, and real-time communications. 
• Contribute to post-event reporting and media archives. 
• Collaborate with the communications team to align event messaging with IWP’s public outreach goals. 

Qualifications

Candidates should be juniors, seniors, or recent graduates in communications, event management, public relations, international affairs, or a related field. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills are essential. Prior experience in event planning, logistics, or communications is highly desirable. Applicants should demonstrate professionalism, attention to detail, and the ability to work in fast-paced settings. A general interest in national security and international affairs is preferred but not required.

Hours and Location

Interns are expected to commit 35–40 hours per week during the summer and 25–30 hours per week during the fall/spring semesters. All internships are conducted in person at IWP’s Washington, D.C. campus. Please note that The Institute of World Politics does not offer remote internships. 

Internship Semester Dates and Application Deadlines