Urban Institute

Research Assistant

June - August 2022 • Washington, DC

What I liked

All the staff made sure the interns felt comfortable with the new systems we learned to use throughout the onboarding process, and also staff at all levels made themselves very available for questions, coffee chats, etc. Additionally, I was put on meaningful ongoing projects and felt that I contributed in significant ways.

What I wish was different

Due to COVID, it was hard to meet other interns. Additionally, as an unpaid intern, I hoped that Urban chooses to pay all interns in the future.

Advice

I would recommend that interns reach out to employees outside of their own research centers because its a great opportunity for networking and learning.

1 One person found this helpful

Research Intern

May - July 2019 • Washington, DC

What I liked

I liked how the other senior researchers respected and trusted all of the interns with actual work that would leave a lasting impression even after we left. I also enjoyed that our intern cohort was very large so I was able to make friends with other students my age. There were brown bags and workshops that were open for us to attend to learn more during the workweek.

What I wish was different

I do not wish anything had been different, it was an amazing experience.

Advice

Have confidence in yourself and the work that you produce. Ask questions when you are unsure about something and reach out to researchers that are doing work that you are interested in, even if you don't work directly with them on any projects.

26 ${count} people found this helpful

Research Intern

October 2017 - February 2018 • Washington, DC

What I liked

I had an opportunity to get familiar with different software like NVivo.

What I wish was different

I wish I had a chance to be in the field with the researchers.

Advice

Make the most of your time by building authentic relationships. I seek advice from my former supervisor to this day.

4 ${count} people found this helpful

Financial Analyst Intern

May - July 2018 • Washington, DC

What I liked

My coworkers were fantastic! I also learned a lot of valuable financial skills as well as technological skills that will definitely be useful in my future.