Finding an Internship

Securing a meaningful internship is one of the most exciting and rewarding parts of the UC Davis Washington Program experience! While the responsibility to find and secure your internship ultimately rests with you, rest assured that the assistance the Program provides coupled with your preparation, dedication, and commitment, you can land an opportunity that will set the stage for a successful and impactful experience in Washington, D.C.

Step 1: Brainstorming

The internship search starts with YOU! In order to effectively conduct an internship search, you need to first think broadly about what career fields interest you and what you hope to achieve during your time in Washington D.C.

  • Start by listing up to 5 broad career fields you are intrigued by.
  • Next, compile a list of skills that you are hoping to practice or develop in your internship.
  • Lastly, consider what type of organizations you would consider working for.

Step 2: Define Your Search

Ask yourself the following questions to narrow down your options:

  1. What internships are available in your field of interest?
  2. What are your goals after graduation and what type of internship will give you valuable experience in that field?
  3. If you do not know exactly what you want to do after you graduate, think about a career path that you would like to "test drive."
  4. How competitive are the internship positions you are interested in?
  5. Check for eligibility requirements and early deadlines. Some government offices require US citizenship (e.g., White House, State Department).

Resources for Defining Your Search:

Step 3: Search Strategy & Methods

  • Start searching early. Some internship deadlines may be early in the quarter.
  • Use Keywords. Look at the language of your “favorite” organization/internship descriptions; are there any keywords that you can use to help you search for similar opportunities?
  • Apply to a variety of internships including smaller organizations; oftentimes they can provide a more engaging experience.
  • Search in the metro area beyond DC.
  • Do not be discouraged if you notice that certain organizations are not listing an internship for quarter students. Most semester internships are also available to quarter students who will be there during roughly the same timeframe as semester students.
  • Come in for drop-in advising or make an appointment for personalized guidance with your internship search.
  • Keep your advisor updated with interview offers, special requirements, denials, and your application status.

Early Deadline Programs

Because of criteria such as security clearance and background checks, some internship deadlines occur before the Washington Program deadlines.

  • Central Intelligence Agency (CIA): 12 months in advance of start date
  • U.S. Department of State: Jan-Feb (Fall), May-June (Spring)
  • The White House: April-May (Fall), July-August (Spring)
  • The Supreme Court: June 15 (Fall), October 15 (Spring)

Step 4: Prepare Your Materials

Before starting your application, it's essential to put together a compelling application packet. This includes refining your resume, crafting a strong cover letter, and gathering writing samples.

View Application Materials Guide

Step 5: Document the Process

Keeping track of where and when you are applying by using the Participant Tracking System (PTS) Application Log will make your internship application experience much easier to manage. Make sure to keep a detailed list of positions, organizations, deadlines, materials needed, and date submitted. 

Step 6: Securing Your Internship

Do not forget to thank the organization that has accepted you to be their intern.

  • It is important to communicate with the internship coordinator as to the days you can work (take into consideration what day your class is on).
  • Do not forget to ask about office hours and dress code.
  • An example of this email can be found on our Email Templates page.