Internship Program

GOPAC’s intern program—LEAD (Leadership, Education, Advocacy, Development) on the Potomac—manages the organization’s internships, campus outreach, and growing alumni network. Over the course of eight weeks during the fall and spring, and eleven weeks over the summer, LEAD on the Potomac offers college and graduate students education, mentorship, resources, and training related to practical, conservative solutions to current policy problems.

LEAD on the Potomac is an in-person, structured, full-time, unpaid internship. To qualify, applicants for LEAD on the Potomac must be an undergraduate student, graduate student, or recent graduate. Applicants must be United States citizens. Living accommodations are not provided, but a list of accommodation suggestions can be supplied, upon request.

Focus areas include communications, finance/fundraising, and operations. Interns will be assigned to a staff member or department based on need and skillset. Specific requests can be made during the application process. 

Learning Experience

LEAD on the Potomac is a distinctive educational and leadership program that is curated to inform and prepare future leaders for professional success. We provide access to not only free enterprise-based philosophical education, but experience and resources for civic and political engagement. Our eight-week program is designed to enhance participants’ leadership capabilities and equip them to confidently and meaningfully contribute in government, public policy, and political contexts.

Program participants will:

  • Realize real-world, hands-on experience in communications, fundraising, and politics/public policy in a professional environment.

  • Engage in issue discussions and networking opportunities to discuss conservative solutions to the challenges our country and states face, in order to advance free market conservatism.

  • Acquire a greater understanding of American political thought and expand their notions of public policy possibilities.

  • Expand their knowledge of current public policy challenges.

  • Engage with policy influencers and experts—and gain insights into their respective areas of expertise, as well as professional opportunities.

  • Receive guidance and mentorship through dedicated one-on-one time with team members.

  • Participate in career exploration and preparation, and leadership training opportunities.

  • Experience historic and cultural attractions and educational opportunities.

Intern Assignments

In addition to meaningful work, interns will engage in the following:

  • Identify and attend at least one Congressional hearing of interest and submit a brief report and analysis.

  • Identify and attend two policy-focused events at DC-based think tanks and submit brief reports and analysis. (Three for summer interns)

  • Participate in cultural/educational field trip.

  • Engage with external influencers in the political/policy/government space at a private group lunch or dinner.

  • Attend a one-on-one lunch with GOPAC staff.

Qualifications

To qualify, applicants for LEAD on the Potomac must be an undergraduate student, graduate student, or recent graduate. Applicants must be United States citizens. In addition, applicants must be available during regular business hours, should be proficient in Microsoft Office programs and email communication, organized, detail oriented, professional, able to work with deadlines, and possess great communication skills. Applicants must have a positive attitude and be willing to provide five-star customer service to all stakeholders.