Highlights from IWP’s Summer Internship

IWP welcomed 42 interns from around the country this summer. They worked on a variety of projects, from in-depth national security research to event logistics and media production. Their research topics included:

• The technological and political implications of the Golden Dome anti-missile defense system
• The perceptions of counterintelligence in academic and corporate environments
• China’s global port strategy and naval competition with the United States
• Russia’s paramilitary engagement in Mali and its implications for U.S. policy

The interns also visited federal agencies where alumni work, like the Department of Justice and Defense Intelligence Agency; honed their briefing skills through weekly presentations; participated in six weeks of wargames; engaged in professional lectures; participated in the Joint Base Andrews Strategic Multilayer Assessment Conference; and completed a graduate-level IWP course on Western Moral and Political Thought.

Below, some of the interns share their experiences:

“We conducted in-depth research on counterintelligence perceptions across the corporate and academic sectors for a collaborative project with IXN Solutions, as well as conducted individual research on a counterintelligence topic of our choosing. As someone who is highly interested in the counterintelligence field, this experience was invaluable and prepared me to enter a career in counterintelligence.”
– Emily Lewis
IWP Research Intern from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Class of 2025

“Through supporting the Energy Diplomacy Leadership (EDL) Program, co-organized by the IWP Center for Energy Security and Diplomacy and Women and Energy, I had the opportunity to look through a unique, high-level window into how international decisions are made—often not in official statements or press releases, but in closed-door conversations where nuance, personal relationships, and cultural understanding take center stage.”
– Marshall Williams
IWP Energy Intern from Georgia Institute of Technology

“My research focused on China’s orbital satellite strategy, a component of a broader project comparing the Belt and Road Initiative with U.S. military strategic sealift. I worked under the mentorship of an IWP doctoral advisor, and our weekly meetings provided space for in-depth discussions of sources connected to our research.”
– Nuha Abuali
IWP Research Intern from the University of Pennsylvania, Class of 2026

“The staff, students, and alumni have real-life experience within my field of interest in intelligence. I was particularly fascinated by Professor Kepp’s lecture on ‘Careers in Intelligence.’ His lecture provided insight into the intelligence field and inspired my commitment to work in the Intelligence Community.”
– Braden Griffin
IWP Research and National Security Intern from Bellarmine University, Class of 2026

“One of the most transformative aspects of this internship has been the growth of my public speaking skills. When I first arrived at IWP, I had very little confidence in my ability to speak in front of an audience. After delivering several intelligence and policy briefings, I’ve become more confident and capable than I ever imagined.”
– Bradley
IWP Research Intern from Kennesaw State University, Class of 2025

“This internship offered a bounty of opportunities that allowed me to engage with so many facets of international affairs, political philosophy, and D.C. itself. Our weekly trips to places like the Department of Justice or the Institute for the Study of War allowed me to ask questions from experts in their field and engage with real-world policymaking and work.”
– Virginia
IWP Research Intern from Davidson College, Class of 2026

“This summer, I had the pleasure of being an Events and Communications Intern under Svetlana Houle. Through our various forums, I was able to see how the intersection between events, communication, and leadership can come together to foster discussions around national security and diplomacy.”
– Hope Drake
Events and Communications Intern from Washington University in St. Louis, Class of 2028

“This summer, I had the pleasure of working as a Social Media Intern at IWP. In this role, I was tasked with producing content for IWP’s social media accounts, assisting in the publication of newsletters, and upkeeping data sheets on audience engagement, among other assignments.”
– Lucas Hahnenberg
Social Media Intern from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Class of 2027

“Among the most constructive and beneficial experiences within the internship was getting to practice and refine my public speaking, critical thinking, and research skills in the process of writing and delivering intelligence and policy briefings.”
– Vanessa Neubauer
National Security, International Affairs, and Intelligence Research Intern from King University, Class of 2026

“This internship stood out because of its immersive structure, blending professional development, research, networking, and interactive outings. I helped with a wide range of multimedia projects, including promotional materials, event recap videos, and the IWP Podcast, all of which deepened my understanding of how media and messaging shape perception.”
– Gracie Davis
Multimedia Intern from University of North Carolina Wilmington, Class of 2026

“I had the opportunity to research the Sinaloa Cartel’s use of counterintelligence and how the United States is actively combating it. My work focused on how these criminal organizations are evolving into intelligence-driven operations capable of hacking, infiltration, and surveillance.”
– Yohana Ibarra
Research Intern from Arizona State University, Class of 2025

“I have had the wonderful opportunity of working under Sade and fellow Advancement intern Isabelle. From the first day, we have worked as a team to develop and advance IWP’s mission through donor relations.”
– Julia Minor
Advancement Intern from Gettysburg College, Class of 2026

“This internship experience deeply solidified my interest in pursuing a career in the Intelligence Community. Exploring the national security implications of cyberspace governance, information warfare, and emerging technologies reaffirmed my passion for research-driven policy and operational impact.”
– Jennifer Vaccaro
Research Intern from George Washington University, Class of 2026

“My internship at IWP was an enriching and transformative experience that significantly broadened my understanding of national security, intelligence, and international affairs.”
– Tyler McCord
Research Intern from Coastal Carolina University, Class of 2025

“Throughout my time at IWP, I engaged in thoughtful conversations with my peers/fellow interns. This dialogue broadened my perspective on the international environment and increased my willingness to challenge my previous opinions and consider new ideas.”
– Lundyn
Research Intern from Wofford College, Class of 2026

“My favorite part of IWP was the wide variety of experienced career professionals who would come speak to our cohort every week. They spanned different government agencies, departments, and sectors – yet all shared similar interests and passions.”
– Jack Greenwood
Research Intern from the University of Maryland, Class of 2027

“Our research team was tasked with researching the geopolitical and technological ramifications of the Golden Dome system, as well as which policy considerations should guide the development of the Golden Dome within the context of global security cooperation and deterrence strategy.”
– Sophia Bowers
Research Intern from Arizona State University, Class of 2025

“This internship gave me the opportunity to grow and deepen my knowledge base regarding China as a U.S. national security threat. This is knowledge and research that will continue to serve me as I work towards finishing my undergraduate degrees.”
– Eden
Research Intern from Hope College, Class of 2026

“Western Moral and Political Thought, taught by Dr. McCranor, is an excellent introduction to what the U.S. strives for and why.”
– Brad Johnson
Research Intern from Texas Christian University

“We completed a larger research study on the way that the corporate and academic sectors view and implement counterintelligence. I also completed an individual research project comparing the United States and Estonia’s cyber diplomacy policies.”
– Isabella Meisten
Research Intern from University of South Carolina, Class of 2027

“This internship is a robust opportunity where you will engage in meaningful dialogues, meet insightful mentors, and engage with your peers.”
– Gunnar Ivarsson
Research Intern from Tufts University, Class of 2028

“In just three months, I learned extensively about recent geopolitics and how the United States can address security threats they may pose, had the chance to learn from and network with professionals in these fields, and gained practical experience and skills.”
– Catia Mehring
Research Intern from Boston University, Class of 2026

“Having lived all my life in France, this internship allowed me to explore American political thinking.”
– Julia Rey
Research Intern, Sorbonne University, Class of 2025

“I have made many amazing friends who share similar interests in the continued protection of the United States through intelligence, international affairs, national security practices, and more.”
– Julia Goetz
Research Intern from Point Park University, Class of 2025

“From discussions on nuclear energy and AI infrastructure to critical mineral supply chains and energy security, I saw how deeply interconnected scientific innovation and international diplomacy truly are. This exposure helped me connect classroom theory to current geopolitical challenges, and it solidified my interest in pursuing a career that bridges technical expertise with strategic, global problem-solving.”
– Emma Viscount
Energy Intern from Georgetown University, Class of 2026

“My professional experience has been limited to writing newspaper articles and PR writing assignments, so it was amazing getting hands-on experience in social media and writing copy for posts.”
– Giancarlo Picanco
Multimedia Intern, California State University, Northridge, 2027

“IWP has a great network that helps you find potential career opportunities and provides an outlet for discussions about topics you are passionate about.”
– Caysen Flint
Research Intern, Brigham Young University Idaho, Class of 2025

Learn more about IWP internships