Academic Internship Program

Experience Employers Look For

Connections Make the Difference

Intern in D.C., Succeed Anywhere 

Intern in D.C.,Succeed Anywhere 

One summer or semester in Washington, D.C. can shape your entire career trajectory. It's a city that opens the door to perspectives, connections and career paths you would have never encountered otherwise, and it can take you in directions you never expected.  


The gains and discoveries you make in D.C. don't end when you leave — they stay with you, wherever your career leads. The people you meet become contacts that you can lean on for advice, opportunities or a recommendation. And the work you do at your internship becomes the credential that sets you apart.  

My D.C. experience didn't just build my résumé, it broke my tunnel vision. I arrived thinking I knew what my career path looked like. I left with an entirely new understanding of what was possible and the conviction to pursue it.

Jared Richards, interned with U.S. Department of Justice

Work Hard, Play Hard  

Washington, D.C. is a city that is practically designed for interns. You’ll find excellent opportunities for networking, career exploration and professional development, but there’s also a vibrant arts and music culture, a world-class food scene, every kind of professional sport and plenty of festivals and community events to attend. 

Build Your Network, Anywhere and Everywhere

TWC keeps you in the loop on networking events throughout the city each week, but you should always be prepared to chat with professionals at your internship site, a think tank event or happy hour. One chance meeting could lead to a future mentorship or job lead. 

Putting yourself out there can seem daunting, but it's easier than it sounds. If you’re willing to talk to people, you already have a leg up on the competition. Building a network in D.C. with people who genuinely want to see you succeed is incredible.

Holland Warren, interned with National Grange

Live Like a Local

TWC's intern housing lets you immerse yourself in D.C. like a resident. You’ll likely live in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with three other interns.


Apartments include Wi-Fi, washer/dryer access and other essential appliances. Our housing is managed by our dedicated Housing and Community Life team to ensure you have the tools and accommodations you need to live comfortably.  


Best of all, you'll be living alongside a community of fellow interns from across the U.S. and around the world, so you'll have people to explore the city with from day one.

I'm grateful for the community that TWC creates. By sharing a building with other interns, you get to meet so many ambitious and awesome people who make the D.C. experience even better.

Bradey DeSpain, interned with Advocacy Associates

Best Things in Life Are (Often) Free

D.C. is packed with activities that won't cost you a thing. Free outings our interns recommend: 

  • Exploring the Smithsonian museums  
  • Walking the National Mall and monuments at night  
  • Seeing the pandas at the National Zoo  
  • Studying in the Library of Congress  
  • Hiking through Rock Creek Park  
  • Attending festivals and community events 

Of course, some things are worth spending a little extra on:  

  • Catching a Nationals game
  • Kayaking the Potomac 
  • Grabbing lunch at Union Market  
  • Meeting a friend for coffee at Lost Sock Roasters  
  • Browsing at Capitol Hill Books 
  • Taking a culinary class at La Cosecha 

See It in
Real Life

Follow @twcinternships, @yourdcbestie, @eventsdc and @visitwashingtondc to get inspiration for your D.C. bucket list. 

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