I loved the building, the atmosphere, and especially the people. I felt I made some wonderful connections through this internship. I also sincerely enjoyed most of my work - getting to research, write, and publish material on potent political issues was fascinating and fun!
What I wish was different
I wish I had gotten a return offer; it would have been nice to have my effort and work validated. Otherwise, I also wish there was a slightly higher stipend - Austin is an expensive city.
Advice
Make sure to take advantage of any opportunity to go to the capital and network with politicians. They will present themselves, and they are wonderful for advocating your beliefs and seeing the political process in action.
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Communication Intern
September 2020 • Austin, TX
What I liked
The whole foundation and the atmosphere among co-workers was unbeatable. It was a great experience and everyone truly cares about not only you as a worker but you as a person and they always go the extra mile to make you feel welcomed and feel at home.
What I wish was different
Advice
If you ever get an offer to intern here take it. You need to fit the mold of the place because it is in the world of politics, but if it is up your ally then take it. Just a great place to work.
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Marketing Intern
May - August 2019 • Fort Worth, TX
What I liked
Everyone that works there is so nice and helpful. I learned so much about the industry and gained experience I wouldnt have if I worked anywhere else.
What I wish was different
I was a remote intern in Fort Worth but they are headquartered in Austin. I wish I had the chance to be with my co-workers everyday to learn just that much more.
Advice
It is something that is very demanding and be ready to push yourself past your limits.
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Higher Education Intern
June - August 2019 • Austin, TX
What I liked
I loved how personalized the job was to my future goals and career aspirations. I also really enjoyed working along side a group of people who were like minded and self-driven.
What I wish was different
I wish I had taken more time to get to know the other interns better. A lot of your work environment depends on those around you and the relationships you foster; I wish I had realized this sooner and invested myself in others and their work a little more.
Advice
Always be early, even if it only two minutes. And always ALWAYS follow up afterward with a hand written card, letter or note. This can go a long way in a digital world and makes you stick out from the rest of the applicants.
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Higher Education Intern
June - August 2019 • Austin, TX
What I liked
I loved working with a team that was selflessly dedicated to saving the country. It was inspiring and very hand-on. The are willing to give interns meaningful and important projects if you ask. They take interns on many trips across the state, and give every intern an opportunity to become published in some form.
What I wish was different
Honestly, it was a wonderful experience across the board.
Advice
Asking for more work is never a bad thing, and can actually go a long way with your employer. Don't be afraid to join more projects or even branch outside your direct department.
Keep in touch with the network you create. While your internship ends, your relationships with your co-workers continues. Writing physical thank you letters can be invaluable, or simply calling to check in now and then.
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Policy Intern
June - August 2018 • Austin, TX
What I liked
I liked the opportunity to research, write and eventually publish a paper, learn about policy issues, and assist in legislative outreach.
What I wish was different
Really nothing! If you don't like to work independently and are not a self-starter, then this internship is probably not for you.
Advice
Be willing to do a lot of research!
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policy intern
June - August 2018 • Austin, TX
What I liked
I was exposed to a lot of different issues and got to see first hand how policy makers create policy.
What I wish was different
I would have received more meaningful work.
Advice
It was a great opportunity to work for such an influential think tank. It is important to capitalize on the connections you make in those places.
