I loved getting experience in public service. I got to be involved in a wide variety of issues, meetings, and events. The people I worked with truly cared about making my experience educational and memorable.
What I wish was different
The State Department has a large internship program and the experience will be different for interns in each individual office. I wish there was more structure to my work in the beginning.
Advice
Take advantage of every opportunity! Say yes to trying new things, joining in on meetings, and taking on new responsibilities.
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Intern
May - August 2019 • Washington, DC
What I liked
In-depth dive into DC politics and how the Department works among other executive departments.
What I wish was different
Wish it was paid!
Advice
Apply early, be on time with deadlines, and expect to be challenged.
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Intern
June - August 2023 • Washington, DC
What I liked
I enjoyed the ability to engage concrete policy work.
What I wish was different
I wish there had been a bit more structure, particularly given summer turnover rates.
Advice
Apply! Even if you're not interested in IR, there are so many opportunities.
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Community Liaison Office Intern - US Embassy Bangkok
June - July 2019 • Bangkok, Bangkok Metropolitan Region
What I liked
Working on a collaborative team.
What I wish was different
The nature of the work in the community office had no set routine and changed each day depending on who visited the office. It was difficult getting used to this lack of structure.
Advice
Anyone looking to work in the Department of State, and especially embassies abroad, should know this is a highly transitory period. It is likely your supervisor could change in the middle of your internship period as this is the time when foreign service officers are moved to their new postings.
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Political Affairs Intern
June - August 2023 • New York City, NY
What I liked
I enjoyed the level of engagement that my supervisors gave me. It was very hands-on and I felt included in the process.
What I wish was different
Some days were very slow and unengaging.
Advice
Make as many connections as possible, government positions are very competitive and the knowledge you gain from this internship will put you ahead later on.
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Accountant Intern
August - September 2019 • Brussels, Brussels-Capital Region
What I liked
I enjoyed the people and the country, and learned a lot
What I wish was different
I wish there had been more work for me to do, I had too much down time
