If you're looking for an internship, it's hard to imagine a more prestigious location than the White House.
The White House internship program is designed to mentor today's young leaders, giving them valuable professional experience and helping them build leadership skills.
With the Sept. 8 deadline for the spring 2018 session quickly approaching, here's what you need to know about landing this coveted position:
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What does a White House intern do?
As an intern, you'll be given varying assignments that can include research, managing incoming queries, writing memos and staffing affairs. You'll also attend weekly events that include a speaker series with senior staff members and small group meetings that feature speakers and discussion about different policy aspects. In addition, interns participate in service projects at Washington, D.C.-area schools and non-profit organizations.
During the Obama administration, interns served in 16 different departments within the White House.
Who can apply?
You'll need to be a U.S. citizen who will be at least 18 years old on the first day of your internship. You'll also need to meet one of the following requirements:
- Currently enrolled in a degree program at a two- or four-year college, community college or university
- Graduated from a program described above no more than two years from the first day of your internship
- Served in the U.S. Armed Forces at some point within the two years before the first day of your internship and has a high school diploma or equivalent
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How do you apply?
They're looking for a commitment to public service, demonstrated leadership in the community and a commitment to the Donald Trump administration's mission.
Applications are only open at certain times. Here is the schedule:
What is on the application?
As part of the application process, the website says you'll need to answer about 10 short answer questions including the ones below:
- "Why are you committed to supporting President Donald J. Trump's Administration?"
- "What Trump Administration policy has resonated with you most? Why?"
- "Who is your favorite President, and why?"
Additionally you must submit your resume, two letters of recommendation and an essay in response to the following prompt: “Write a professional policy memorandum for a senior White House staffer recommending an initiative that would benefit the American people.”
Will you get paid?
If you pass the application process and become an intern, you're likely to gain experience and make contacts that are invaluable. But don't count on that value coming in the form of immediate pay.
White House interns have historically been unpaid. The same is true this time around. Generally, unpaid interns aren't supposed to do the work of paid employees, but government agencies are exempt from this Department of Labor guideline.
It can be very expensive to live in Washington, D.C., even in the short-term. Some interns try to get stipends from their alma maters to help offset the cost, but those must be pre-approved.
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