Early Deadline Internships

The following is a sampling of the meatier internships in D.C., and therefore have much earlier deadlines and more rigorous application procedures. But if you’re the right match for the spot, it’s worth the trouble. If you’re past this year’s deadline, consider getting an early start for next year. Don’t strike out on your own – make sure to apply to the Fels Internship Program first so that we can help you identify the right internship.

Washington Post
http://www.washpost.com/news_ed/summer_internships/index.shtml

As you will see when you visit their website, former interns are now employed in the highest positions at the paper, and interns regularly have their stories published. They require writing samples and previous newspaper experience. Interns at the Post are paid – a very respectable $825 a week in summer 2005. Deadline is November 1.

Federal Bureau of Investigations
http://www.fbijobs.gov/231.asp

From their website: “Once selected, FBI Interns can look forward to three extremely rewarding and interesting months.  You'll be working side-by-side with Special Agents and Professional Support personnel on important cases and procedures.  You'll feel like you're a part of the Bureau....because you are.  Upon arriving in Washington, D.C., Honors Interns will attend an orientation at the FBI Headquarters.  Interns will be assigned to an FBI Headquarters division based on their academic discipline, potential contribution to the division, and the needs of the FBI.  For instance, Interns whose discipline is in the physical sciences may be assigned to the FBI Laboratory's Forensic Science Research and Training Center in nearby Quantico, Virginia.  All Interns will be under the Supervision of the Assistant Director of their assigned division.  By the end of your internship, you will have a thorough understanding of the inner workings of the FBI.”

FBI interns are paid at the GS-6 level, which works out to about $2,000 a month. Deadline is November 1.

Central Intelligence Agency
http://www.cia.gov/employment/student.html#top

From their website: “You will be given the opportunity to work with highly-skilled professionals and see first-hand the role the CIA plays in supporting US officials who make our country's foreign policy. We are interested in students majoring in engineering, computer science, mathematics, economics, physical sciences, foreign languages, area studies, business administration, accounting, international relations, finance, logistics, human resources, geography, national security studies, military and foreign affairs, political science and graphic design. Interns are required to work either a combination of one semester and one summer internship, or two 90-day summer internships.”

CIA pay is competitive, and their deadline is November 1.

United States Department of State
http://www.careers.state.gov/students/programs.html

From their website: “It's an opportunity for you to get an inside look at the different types of positions and responsibilities available in foreign affairs. Think of it as taking a career test ride before you actually have to decide what you are going to do with your life.”

Students tentatively selected for the internship program must undergo a background investigation and receive either a Secret or Top Secret security clearance. Deadline is November 1.