US Department of State Internships

The Department of State sponsors internships in the Washington, DC, area, and at overseas embassies and consulates. The Department is looking for students with a broad range of majors, such as Business or Public Administration, Social Work, Economics, Information Management, Journalism, the Biological and Physical and Engineering Sciences, as well as those majors more traditionally identified with international affairs. Intern duties and responsibilities may vary according to post or office of assignment. For instance, interns may write reports on human-rights issues, assist with trade negotiations, assist with citizen’s services or visa work, help Americans in distress abroad, or organize conferences or visits of high-level officials. Others may research economic or environmental issues, write news stories, work on web pages or help produce electronic journals. Interns with scientific and technical backgrounds might work with issues such as arms control, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), infectious diseases, and remote sensing. Those interested in management may use their expertise working on projects involving budgets, human resources, information systems, or general logistical support to posts abroad. Some may be involved in educational and cultural exchange activities. Interns are also instrumental in the recruiting of U.S. speakers and specialists for overseas programs. Internships are excellent preparation for future careers in both the Civil Service and the Foreign Service.