Explore America Summer Internships

American Philosophical Society, Digital Scholarship Internship 
Philadelphia, PA 

In-person, full-time position

This summer internship is an opportunity to learn more about archival research, digitization, and digital scholarship while gaining hands-on experience developing a digital humanities project in a research library setting.  

Revolutionary City: A Portal to the Nation’s Founding is a public-facing digital archive 
(https://therevolutionarycity.org/) of manuscript materials created or received in Philadelphia during the American Revolution (1774-1783). Archival collections that reveal the story of how the Revolution unfolded in that most revolutionary of cities are largely hidden. Philadelphia is an iconic symbol of the American Revolution, home to the Continental Congress and Independence Hall. While historic sites can be visited, the personal diaries, correspondence, broadsides, and business and court documents documenting the conflicted feelings of the women and men who lived through the tumultuous revolution cannot be easily found online. Revolutionary City brings together collections scattered across multiple archives, reuniting manuscript and print materials that have been separated, in some cases, for centuries.  Institutional choices about collection organization and cataloging privilege elite white families, rendering invisible many more, especially people of color, with whom their lives were intertwined. As the United States approaches its semiquincentennial (250th) anniversary in 2026, Americans will be looking online for materials to help them understand the nation’s founding principles, history, and democratic processes. Revolutionary City will allow them to see their own diverse backgrounds and experiences reflected in these sources, in the shared story of the women and men who declared independence, founded a new nation, and united as a citizenry to create a democracy. 

Working closely with staff at the APS, the intern will contribute to the Revolutionary City Portal. The internship will focus on digitization of the original manuscripts, metadata creation, and biographical research on women and men named in these rare primary source materials. Special attention will be paid to recovering the voices of women and men marginalized in the archival record.  By contributing to this digital humanities project, the Intern will learn how to: 

• Work with unique digitized archival holdings

Digitize 18th-century documents

• Generate meaningful metadata from historic documents

• Research historical sources in a range of formats

• Communicate findings to local, national, and international audiences

• Plan and prototype future uses of the data

The American Philosophical Society (APS), the oldest learned society in the United States, was founded in 1743 by Benjamin Franklin for the purposes of “promoting useful knowledge.” In the 21st century, it serves to advance knowledge and promote scholarship in the humanities and social, mathematical, life, and physical sciences. Members of the Society are elected from among the most eminent scholars and civic and cultural leaders in North America and abroad. More than 100 living APS Members are Nobel laureates. 

The APS Library & Museum’s collections make it among the premier institutions for documenting and exhibiting the history of the American Revolution and founding, the history of science from Newton to NASA, Native American languages and culture, and the development of American anthropology. The Library houses over 13 million manuscripts, 275,000 volumes and bound periodicals, 250,000 images, fine art, and other objects.

Museum exhibitions interpret these extensive collections for the regional, national, and international visitors who come to Philadelphia’s historic district. In so doing, the exhibitions aim to nurture the spirit of inquiry, promote critical thinking, and engender enthusiasm for object-based learning by using primary source documents and authentic objects. The Library & Museum also hosts a robust fellowship program, offering over 25 short-term and 10 long-term fellowships each year to scholars using its collections.  For further information on APS Library & Museum Collections visit: http://amphilsoc.org/library and 
http://amphilsoc.pastperfectonline.com/ 

The American Scholar Magazine, Magazine Intern

Remote or hybrid, full-time position (hybrid option TBD)

The American Scholar is the venerable but lively quarterly magazine of public affairs, literature, science, history, and culture published by the Phi Beta Kappa Society since 1932. In recent years, the magazine has won five National Magazine Awards, the industry’s highest honor, and been nominated for awards sixteen times. Many of its essays and articles have been selected for the yearly Best American anthologies. 

Inspired by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s famous speech “The American Scholar,” delivered to the Phi Beta Kappa Society at Harvard College in 1837, the magazine aspires to Emerson’s ideals of independent thinking, self-knowledge, and a commitment to the affairs of the world as well as to books, history, science, fiction, poetry, and the arts. 

Position Summary: The intern will have the opportunity to work closely with a small staff of four full-time editors, as well as the associate publisher, in several areas of editing and publishing. 

Responsibilities:

• Fact-check articles prior to publication

• Write and create content for the magazine’s social media channels and think about innovate ways to use social media

• Assist in maintaining the magazine’s digital presence

• Read proof and participate in the final proofing round of the publication cycle

• Work with our associate publisher on promotions and other business-related matters

Qualifications: A deep and abiding interest in books, magazine writing, and the arts. The ability to write clearly, stylishly, and concisely. Candidates should have a facility with Microsoft Word, Twitter, and Instagram (especially in creating reels and stories). 

The Apollo Theater, New York, NY

Exhibitions Intern

In Person 3 days/week 30 hours

The legendary Apollo  - the soul of American culture - plays a vital role in cultivating emerging artists and launching legends. Since its founding, the Apollo has served as a center of innovation and a creative catalyst for Harlem, the city of New York, and the world. 

OUR MISSION: The Apollo is a commissioner and presenter; catalyst for new artists, audiences, and creative workforce; and partner in the projection of the African American narrative and its role in the development of American and global culture.

OUR VISION: The Apollo envisions a new American canon centered on contributions to the performing arts by artists of the African diaspora, in America and beyond.

Apollo's Education Program and Archives are collaborating to install a dynamic and interactive gallery exhibition, that highlights the impact and varied contributions that women have had on The Apollo’s 90-year history. Women have been at the cornerstone of ingenuity and leadership and shape the legacy of The Apollo. This exhibition is set to open at the top of 2026. 

The Exhibitions Intern will be a key figure in helping to advance and shape this exhibition. They will aid in the selection of archival materials for this exhibition, build language surrounding the themes reflected in the exhibition, and support the planning of added programming and curriculum materials connected to this exhibition. This is a wonderful opportunity for students interested in history, archival material, education, and the performing arts.

We would ask that the intern be able to work in our offices in NYC, Tuesday through Thursdays- as this role will be working collaboratively with our education and archival staff regularly. 

Brookings Institution,

Washington D.C.

Research Assistant

In person 30 hours per week

The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C. Our mission is to conduct in-depth, nonpartisan research to improve policy and governance at local, national, and global levels. At the core of our mission is the quality, independence, and impact of our research. We are dedicated to finding bold, pragmatic solutions for societal challenges through open-minded inquiry, diverse perspectives, and holding ourselves to the highest standards of scholastic rigor. Because of this, Brookings has been at the forefront of public policy for more than a century.

The Brookings Internship program provides students with a pre-professional, meaningful, and practical work experience related to the student’s field of study or career interest. Brookings Internships provide an opportunity for career exploration and development as well as a chance to learn new skills. Interns will have the opportunity to attend internal meetings (virtually or in-person), local think tank events, professional development workshops, and public Brookings events. Interns should have strong writing, analytic, and internet-based research skills.

The Intern should expect to work on research tasks on a variety of subject areas including social democracy and Christian nationalism.

Interns should have a demonstrated interest in public policy, polling and elections. Interns should have strong writing, analytic, and internet-based research skills, including experience with fact-checking and familiarity working with data. Brookings Internships provide an opportunity for career exploration and development as well as a chance to learn new skills. Interns will have the opportunity to attend internal meetings (virtually or in-person), local think tank events, professional development workshops, and public Brookings events.

The internship runs for 10 weeks and there are two options for start and end dates:

• June 2, 2025 – August 8, 2025
• June 16, 2025 – August 22, 2025.

Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, Curatorial and Interpretation Internship

St. Michaels, MD

In person, full-time position (10-12 weeks) with travel/housing stipend provided

Summary:

Explore the field of museum curation and interpretation through an internship experience tailored to fit your interests that provides both an overview of the wide-ranging responsibilities of a museum curator and educator, and the opportunity to dive deep into one or more projects. CBMM’s diverse collection of more than 90,000 objects, including material culture, archival collections, folklife, photography, and library materials offer endless avenues for exploration of the Chesapeake’s history, environment, and culture, to be shared with the public through collections access, exhibitions, and research-based, community-responsive programming and workshops that meet the needs of different audiences.

Opportunities include: object and archival-based research, cataloging, using collections management systems, environmental monitoring, high-tech digitization, exhibit planning and scriptwriting, developing guided tours, and facilitating workshops and unique programs. Interns are invited and encouraged to take advantage of various programs and hands-on experiences at CBMM and in the community outside of the regular workday.

Background:

The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum explores and preserves the history, environment, and culture of the entire Chesapeake Bay region, and makes this resource accessible to all. Every aspect of fulfilling this mission is driven by CBMM’s values of relevance, authenticity, and stewardship, along with a commitment to providing engaging guest experiences and transformative educational programming, all while serving as a vital community partner.  CBMM welcomes nearly 100,000 guests annually to its 18-acre campus which includes historic structures, purpose-built exhibition galleries, a working shipyard, library and collections storage facility, and a floating fleet of historic vessels.

Qualifications:

• Full-time students with a major in history, museum studies, education library/information science, anthropology, or a related field
• Robust computer and database skills
• Strong historical research and writing skills.
• Attentive to detail and be willing to perform tasks according to instructions and professional standards
• Enthusiasm for creating dynamic interpretation and providing access to Chesapeake cultural history to a variety of audiences

Delaware Center for Horticulture, Urban Greening & Agriculture Internship 

Wilmington, DE

In-person, full-time position 

The Delaware Center for Horticulture (DCH, Wilmington, DE) is seeking a motivated, energetic student in horticulture, agriculture, or plant science to serve as our 2025 Urban Greening and Agriculture Intern.  This internship is a hands-on program that assists in the care and maintenance of DCH’s community forestry activities, DCH facility gardens in the Trolley Square neighborhood of Wilmington, landscaped sites located throughout Wilmington and New Castle County, and farming activities at DCH's two urban agricultural locations within the city limits of Wilmington. This internship will also provide the opportunity to assist DCH's Education Manager with educational program delivery geared toward youth and focused on topics related to the outside world.

For the 2025 growing season, DCH's intern will have the unique opportunity of working directly with DCH’s Public Landscapes Manger, Community Forester, and Urban Farm Coordinator, gaining applied community outreach experience through hands-on growing, harvesting, and community engagement, while also gaining practical experience in urban agriculture, urban forestry, public/display horticulture, and the daily operations of a small not-for-profit. Additionally, the intern will have the opportunity to help support the development and expansion of DCH’s Delaware River Climate Corps (DRCC), entering its second year. The DRCC is an expansion of DCH’s Branches to Chances© horticultural workforce development program serving returning citizens through horticultural instruction, experience, and job placement. 

The experience is envisioned as a full-time (37.5 hrs/week) position for 8-10 weeks, mid-May through late July/early August. Exact start and end dates are negotiable. 

Learning and Experience Offered 
Opportunities to attend off-site (or virtual), industry training, such as plant conferences and workshops, and to visit other local public gardens. 

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Will report directly to DCH's Community Forester, participating in weekly care and maintenance tasks for DCH's tree planting activities, facility gardens and container plantings.
• Assist the Education Manager with the planning and delivery of select educational programs.
• Participate and support workshops and events, as schedule permits.
• Serve as a team member for installation and maintenance of DCH greening projects and as a support system for DCH's community forestry & urban ag activities and public landscapes. 
• Participate in the development of a new urban tree and garden plantings and / or data collection for related projects.
• Watering of new project plantings and landscape installations, container plantings, and public landscapes. -
• Learn safe, approved methods for integrated pest management, weed control, pruning of woody plants, power tool use, and procedures for working on public sites. -
•  Work with volunteers and community members.
• Assist with tracking time and materials. 
• Complete an independent study project under the direction of your supervisor (if desired or required).

Qualification/Requirements

• A strong academic background or experience in horticulture, agriculture, landscape architecture, environmental studies or closely related field is desired but not required. 
• Passion and interest in the outdoors, climate resiliency, and community outreach.
• An ability and willingness to communicate with garden visitors.
• Strong work ethic, both independently and as part of a team. 
• Willingness to work outdoors in a variety of summer weather.
• Be able and willing to lift at least 50 lbs. 
• A valid driver's license and verifiable driving record is required.
• Flexibility/ Ability to conform to COVID safety protocols including mask wearing, social distancing, etc. in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings.

Proof of COVID vaccination and booster is required. Personal vehicle and laptop are required to ensure ability to access various sites with safe distance and to participate in virtual meetings and events, as warranted. 

Easterseals of Delaware and Maryland's Eastern Shore

DE (Newark, Dover, Georgetown, or New Castle) In-person, full-time position 

Position Title: Life Services (IDS) or Adult Day Health Services (ADHS) Intern

Location Options: Newark (IDS only), Dover (IDS only), Georgetown (IDS or ADHS) or New Castle (IDS or ADHS)

Purpose: This full-time Intern will work as a classroom assistant in one of our Day Programs. The Intellectual Disability Services (IDS) provides goal-driven activities and community involvement through individual and group instruction. Interns will support staff in creating and implementing meaningful program activities that promote independence. There will be opportunities to create and lead your own group activity or presentation, as well as observe and participate in staff meetings. The Adult Day Health Services (ADHS) works alongside program staff as activity/program assistants and will help staff in conducting group and individual activities, preparing lunches and clerical work. They will support our mission to provide exceptional services to ensure that all people with disabilities or special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities.

Program Description: Intellectual Disabilities Services provides day programs with community-oriented opportunities and activities for adults with intellectual disabilities or developmental disabilities, designed to increase personal independence and enhance the person’s quality of life. Adult Day Health Services provides social, recreational, and educational activities for men and women that have an acquired disability. Typically, they have had a normal life experience (career, marriage) and then had a life event such as a stroke or brain injury, or onset of a disease such as multiple sclerosis or Alzheimer's. The result is a group of people whose thinking is intact, but whose bodies no longer function well for independent living. Programs are supervised by a licensed nurse and on-site therapy services are available as medically indicated.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist staff in creating and leading meaningful program activities that promote independence based on the individual’s preferences and strengths
• Plan and participate in community activities (these include trips to restaurants, parks, gardens, orchards, )
• Engage participants in different activities
• Case management support
• Help with room set up and breakdown
• Assist with lunch
• Other duties as assigned

Length of Internship: We are looking for about 30-40 hours a week for this full time, 10-week internship, though we will build a schedule that best fits the intern’s schedule. Our programs run Monday – Friday from 8:30am – 2:30pm.

Qualifications: Basic knowledge of computers. Pleasant manner, approachable, patient, problem-solving ability, dependability, and desire to work with people with disabilities. Training for this position will be provided. Dress code is business casual. 

George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Digital Mapping Internship 
Mt. Vernon, VA 

Hybrid, full-time position

One of the nation’s most beloved historic sites, Mount Vernon offers a glimpse into 18th-century life through beautiful gardens and grounds, intriguing museum exhibits, and immersive programs honoring George Washington’s life and legacy.   The Fred W. Smith National Library for the Study of George Washington serves to increase scholarship in and access to the life, leadership, and legacy of George Washington. The Library comprises three areas of work: Center for Digital History, Leadership Institute, and Library Programs. The Library provides access and training to many audiences and works in concert with George Washington’s Estate (located across the street) to support over a million visitors per year as well as millions more who explore our resources online. 

Position Summary: The Center for Digital History at the Washington Library is seeking a Digital Mapping Intern for summer 2024. The CDH creates new research and teaching opportunities centered on George Washington and early America through digital means. The Center is collaborating with the Leventhal Map and Education Center at the Boston Public Library to construct ARGO: American Revolutionary Geographies Online, a new digital portal that brings together thousands of digitized early American maps from several partner institutions into one place. In addition to the maps, ARGO will feature essays, curated exhibits, and digital interactives that help patrons interpret the cartography and geography of the Revolutionary Era.  

The intern will work collaboratively with the CDH’s Manager and Digital Projects Editor on the project. The library is open 9-5, M-F; schedule can be built to best fit the interns own schedule and needs. Some in-person work is required, but the intern will have the option to work remotely in consultation with the CDH team. 

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Analyzing and tagging maps for inclusion in online exhibits and facet collections

• Background research on George Washington’s maps and other topics

• Assisting in the creation of interactive features.

• Other duties as assigned

They will also have the option of writing an article to contribute to ARGO or another CDH project.

Qualifications:

• Strong research skills

• Good organizational skills and the ability to work independently

• An interest in early American history

• An interest in digital collections practices and the practice of digital history

Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, Curatorial Internship 

New York City  In-person, full-time position.

The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History was founded in 1994 by Richard Gilder and Lewis E. Lehrman, visionaries and lifelong supporters of American history education. The Institute is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to K–12 history education while also serving the general public. Its mission is to promote the knowledge and understanding of American history through educational programs and resources.  At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. Drawing on the 85,000 documents in the Gilder Lehrman Collection and an extensive network of eminent historians, the Institute provides teachers, students, and the general public with direct access to unique primary source materials.  As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is supported through the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations. The Institute’s programs have been recognized by awards from the White House, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Organization of American Historians, the Council of Independent Colleges, and the National Daughters of the American Revolution. 

This internship will provide a strong foundation in multiple aspects of the museum and archives profession. Interns will be trained in object handling, collection management software, and collection management. Applicants should have a strong interest in American History and considering a career in archives or museum studies. 

Roles and Responsibilities (including, but not limited to):

• Review materials in the Collection and standardize their dates to read Month, Day, Year.
• Migrate information for letters to a newly created recipient field.
• Verify that authors and recipients are listed in the People field.
• Other fields may be added to the review depending on progress.

Required skills include:

• Highly organized with close attention to detail

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Quick thinker with demonstrated problem-solving skills

• Knowledge of basic collections care and management practices a plus

Hagley Museum and Library, Curatorial Intern

Wilmington, DE

Hybrid

Hagley Museum’s Curatorial Department is seeking a summer intern to assist with a the processing of the museum's collections of 19th-century patent models.  Working under the supervision of the Registrar and Assistant Curator, Patent Models, the intern will assist in activities including object cataloging and photography, database management, rehousing of objects into proper storage environments, as well as histroical research.

The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail and general interest in museum collections management, database management, and the history of invention in the United States.

Candidates should also be able to fulfill this commitment in Wilmington. DE with their own transportation.  Hybrid work is an option, with that schedule to be determined between candidate and supervisor.

Hagley Museum and Library is located on 235 acres along the banks of the Brandywine in Wilmington, Delaware. Hagley is the site of the gunpowder works founded by E. I. du Pont in 1802. This example of early American industry includes restored mills, a workers' community, and the ancestral home and gardens of the du Pont family. The museum holds approximately 70,000 objects in its collection, ranging from du Pont family and DuPont Company items to 19^th century United States patent models.

For more information on Hagley Museum, please visit www.hagley.org.    

Human Rights Campaign, Internship 
Washington, D.C. 

Hybrid/Remote/In-Person (depending on the student), full-time position

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve LGBTQ+ equality. By inspiring and engaging individuals and communities, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBTQ+ people and realize a world that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

The Human Rights Campaign envisions a world where lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people are ensured equality and embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community.  The Human Rights Campaign is seeking engaging, passionate interns for Summer 2025. We strongly encourage people of color, transgender and non-binary people to apply. HRC is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone, including non-LGBTQ+ people, to join our team.

The intern may be placed in the departments of Political Affairs, Communications, Development, or Community and Education depending on their interests/background and the needs of the organization. Candidate must be vaccinated against Covid 19 and present proof of vaccination

Library of Congress – Literary Initiatives Office, Literary Initiatives Office Internship

Washington, D.C.

Hybrid, full-time position - The Literary Initiatives Internship is designed for individuals who are studying English or Creative Writing, Library Science, and other related subjects in the field. It is intended to offer training for those looking to have a career in arts administration, publishing, and public programming.

Interns will assist with the office's literary programs; the National Book Festival; literary event series; special and ongoing projects. Interns will also assist with programs including those related to literary ambassador positions such as the U.S. Poet Laureate, the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, and the winner of the Library of Congress Prize for American Fiction; and assist the office in its day-to-day activities.

The Library benefits by having assistance in the Literary Initiatives office and by further connecting to the local literary community. For students wanting careers in literary public programming, this experience is invaluable.

Activities include:

• Writing blogs

• Organizing info submitted by publicists via author nomination forms

• Developing LibGuides (researcher resources)

• Supporting the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature program

• Editing author videos to create social media shorts/reels

• National Book Festival support

• Proofread, write and review website content
• Update workflow and help keep track of data
• Work on promotional content
• All other tasks assigned to prepare for NBF

General Website: https://www.loc.gov/programs/poetry-and-literature

National Book Festival Website: https://www.loc.gov/bookfest

Interests/Areas of Study: Humanities, Art and Culture; Literature; Poetry; Literary Events; Interest in literature for all ages and in all genres; librarianship; publishing; writing.

Longwood Gardens, Land Stewardship and Ecology Internship

TWO POSITIONS ARE AVAILABLE

In-person, full-time position

The Land Stewardship and Ecology Intern is immersed in both the practice of land stewardship and the science of ecology, learning from varied experiences that range from restoration of native plant communities and scientific data collection to trail maintenance and wildlife monitoring.

The intern supports Longwood’s Land Stewardship and Ecology team in the management of 700+ diverse acres of forests, meadows, wetlands, streams, ponds, and agricultural lands in southeastern Pennsylvania Piedmont landscape, including the 86-acre Meadow Garden. All members of the team perform daily stewardship activities such as planting, meadow mowing, trail maintenance, and invasive species management.

The intern also helps to advance scientific research in ecology and test innovative land stewardship practices. Responsibilities may include: Collecting field, laboratory, and greenhouse data

GIS mapping; engaging with volunteers; and participating in educational programs related to land stewardship.

Qualifications:

Self-motivation, a high degree of organization, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and with a team are essential.

The ability to lift 50 lbs., willingness to work in adverse weather conditions, and a valid driver's license are required.

Experience with ecological data collection is preferred.

Applicants must have or be actively working toward a bachelor’s degree in ecology, botany, wildlife biology, environmental science, or a related discipline, along with a passion for land stewardship and conservation.

For more information:

https://longwoodgardens.org/sustainability/land-stewardship-management

The Maryland Center for History and Culture (MCHC), Archival and Collections Internship.

In-person, full-time position - The Maryland Center for History and Culture (MCHC) is seeking a student with a strong interest in history, archives, library science, and/or research. The student will gain archival processing and collections management experience while working with a range of materials in MCHC’s H. Furlong Baldwin Library. This work may include inventorying; researching; and arranging and describing materials, including creating finding aids. The intern will help to grow access to unprocessed materials and/or improve access to existing collections. We also welcome opportunities for this student to share their research findings and experiences with a greater public audience through blog posts.

This is an on-site position, Monday thru Friday, 10am-4pm

Required Skills/Experience/Knowledge:

• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to work well independently as well as part of a team.

Preferred Skills/Experience/Knowledge:

• Interest in history, museum or information studies, or related fields.
• Strong research and writing skills.

About the Organization:

The Maryland Center for History and Culture (MCHC) collects, preserves, and interprets the history, art, and culture of Maryland. Originally founded as the Maryland Historical Society in 1844, MCHC inspires critical thinking, creativity, and community by exploring multiple perspectives and sharing national stories through the lens of Maryland.

As the oldest operating nonprofit cultural institution in the state, MCHC houses a collection of 7 million books, documents, manuscripts, and photographs, and 350,000 objects in its museum and library located in Baltimore. MCHC also serves as a leading center of Maryland history education through its onsite school tours, student research center, virtual field trips, traveling trunks, online digital learning resources, and professional development opportunities for teachers.

MCHC does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or any other status protected by law and strongly encourages all qualified professionals to apply.

Maryland State Archives, MAYIS Project

Native American Resources and Research Internship

In person full time

This position is for an intern to serve as staff reseacher for the Maryland State Archives project relating to Native Americans in the Chesapeake Region. The project seeks to improve access to records documenting an undersevrved American Indian heritage population of 2.1% who live in Maryland. Interns will examine early colonial records of Eastern Shore and Central Maryland counties, to extract the names of people and places for our database. The search tool that the Archives is building is the basis of a website, Mayis, providing informational resources for and about tribal communities within Maryland.  Our website is an educational pathway for teachers and historians, as well as a user-friendly experience for Native youth and adults to learn about their heritage.  The incumbent will be creating content for this resource, and may assist archivists with preparations for educational programming and/or projects collaborating with Tribes in the region. 

This internship allows a student to learn about the rich cultures of indigenious communities throughout the state.  The project includes training in land records analysis at the Maryland State Archives (books and paper formats).  The intern will also gain experience in reading historic handwriting. The intern will create indexing to locate specific information about English documents containing records of contact and conflict between settlers and Indigenous people. The intern may also research and write content about modern-day American Indians around the Cheasapeake utilizing a wide range of primary and secondary sources. The intern will be invited to write about the project, historical topics, biographical subjects to elevate these cultures on the Maryland State Archives social media platforms.

Maryland State Archives

National Aquarium, Conservation Education Internship

Baltimore, MD

In-person, full-time position - Short Description: Education interns assist Conservation Education and Guest Engagement staff in the creation, revision, and instruction of school, outreach, and guest engagement programs.

The selected candidate has the opportunity to work with an enthusiastic team of educators and a variety of audiences, and will learn a number of teaching methods in changing settings.

Detailed Description: Education interns assist Conservation Education and Guest Engagement staff in the creation, revision, and instruction of classroom, outreach, and guest engagement programs. The selected candidate has the opportunity to work with an enthusiastic team of educators and a variety of audiences and will learn a number of teaching methods in changing settings.

Essential Functions:

• Instruct formal on-site and outreach programs, including classroom, auditorium, and virtual programs.

• Teach Aquarium guests about the animals in our care and how they can make a difference through interpreting the Aquarium’s exhibits and educational carts

• Support afterschool youth programs such as the Henry Hall Fellowship and Youth Exhibit Guide Program

• Assist with lesson plan development and preparation of educational programs

• Complete special projects and duties as assigned

Requirements:

• Must be interested in education, public speaking, and customer service. Preferred: demonstrated interest in marine science, the environment, or conservation.

• Must be interested in learning about the Aquarium’s animals, exhibits, and mission.

• Must be able to navigate Zoom and other virtual meeting technology, or willing to learn quickly.

• Must occasionally be willing to talk to large audiences (up to 200) in a variety of settings.

• Must be enrolled at Washington College or have graduated in the previous semester, pursuing a degree in education, science, or a related field.

• Must complete a minimum of 10 weeks of full-time work within the term.

Internships at the National Aquarium provide hands-on and minds-on experiences that add value to any college education. Applying classroom knowledge, interns obtain valuable job experience and establish professional contacts.

The National Aquarium is committed to diversity and invites individuals who bring a diversity of culture, experience and ideas to apply.

National Constitution Center, Visitor Experience and Education Internship

Philadelphia, PA

Hybrid, full-time position -Reports to the Director of Learning and Engagement

BACKGROUND

The National Constitution Center is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization devoted to teaching about the Constitution. Located on Philadelphia’s historic Independence Mall, steps from where the Constitution was drafted and signed, it serves as America’s leading platform for constitutional education and debate, fulfilling its congressional charter “to disseminate information about the U.S. Constitution on a nonpartisan basis in order to increase awareness and understanding of the Constitution among the American people.”

POSITION SUMMARY

The Education Intern will work with Visitor Experience and Education department directors to create innovative and engaging educational materials to support the Center programs and initiatives. This includes creating materials such as worksheets, study guides, PowerPoint presentations, quizzes, and other similar materials to better support the educational experience of students, teachers, and parents as they use online resources like the Interactive Constitution, or attend online classes and virtual tours.

The intern will also support the on site educational experience by helping to create dynamic museum programs connected to museum exhibits or holiday observances. This process will involve researching a variety of historic topics, developing creative ways to present these topics to a wide audience in a museum setting, writing program scripts, creating PowerPoint presentations or other audio/visual elements to accompany the programs, and acquiring any props, costumes, or supplies that may be needed for the programs.

The intern will assist project leads during the planning and execution of education department programs, events and initiatives, including teacher community events, Scholar Exchanges (online classes), Civic Holidays, family programs like scouting events and sensory-friendly days, and other projects as needed, helping to ensure that projects are well organized and stay on task.

This is a hybrid internship, with the intern expected to be at the NCC’s Philadelphia location at least three days a week, and the option for remote work the other two days.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Create materials such as worksheets, study guides, PowerPoint presentations, quizzes, and other similar materials to correlate with the Center's online resources.

• Create innovative educational programs that will be presented by the Center's education staff on the museum floor

• Provide research assistance for programs that will be created in conjunction with the Center's exhibits and events.

• Support in the planning and executing of education department programs, events, and initiatives.

• Attend department meetings, prepare agendas, take and circulate notes, and track action items.

• Assist with copy editing and review of internal documents

• Perform other duties as assigned

• Please note that the Center may change specific job duties with or without prior notice based on the needs of the organization

QUALIFICATIONS

• Full-time student currently enrolled in an accredited college or university

• Strong interest in the U.S. Constitution and history of the United States; interest in Education or Museum Programs preferred

• Strong oral and written communication skills

• Strong historical research skills

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, particularly PowerPoint

• Reliable, detail-oriented

• Must be available during regular business hours, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.; ability to work weekends and holidays a plus.

• Previous experience working with public a plus

National Endowment for the Humanities, Office of Federal-State Partnerships,

Washington, D.C.

Remote, full-time position: The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) is an independent federal agency that provides support to advance and disseminate knowledge in all of the disciplines of the humanities: history, literature, linguistics, archaeology, jurisprudence and the history, criticism and theory of the arts.

The Office of Federal/State Partnership brings humanities education, lifelong learning, and public humanities programming to communities across the country by providing general operating support grants to more than 50 state and jurisdictional humanities councils. Together, Federal/State Partnership and the councils advance public understanding of the humanities, while enhancing public awareness of, access to, and support for the humanities on a local, grassroots level. State and jurisdictional councils sponsor book festivals, literacy programs, speaker’s bureaus, teacher development, cultural tourism, humanities publications, community conversations, films, and exhibitions, among other public programs.

The Office of Federal/State Partnership is looking for an intern with a passion for the humanities and excellent writing, communications, and organizational skills. Interns must be professional, self-directed, pay close attention to detail, and able to complete tasks in a timely manner.

Potential projects include research and writing on current public humanities topics; digital records management; and data analysis. Some examples of projects:

• Researching and compiling reports on council programs and sub awards, particularly programs related to NEH’s new special initiative, American Tapestry: Weaving Together Past, Present, and Future, that leverages the humanities to strengthen our democracy, advance equity for all, and address our changing climate

• Working with program officers to create graphs and reports from councils’ 2022 Activities and Outcomes

Report data

• Assisting program officers with planning for NEH’s participation in the National Book Festival

While working in the Office of Federal/State Partnership, the intern will have an opportunity to participate in agency wide intern activities, explore the roles and responsibilities of other NEH divisions, and attend virtual programs conducted by state and jurisdictional humanities councils.

National Historical Park, Education and Interpretation Internship

Harpers Ferry, WV

TWO POSITIONS ARE AVAILABLE - In-person, full-time (12 weeks), with housing provided - Harpers Ferry

National Historical Park encompasses almost 4,000 acres across the three states of West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland. Situated at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, the park includes over 20 miles of hiking trails and over two centuries of recorded history. Here you can walk in the footsteps of early explorers and settlers, presidents, soldiers, students, and civil rights activists, as they each wrought changes on the landscape and shaped the course of American history.

This in-person internship is an opportunity to work in Public History with National Park Service rangers in the Interpretation, Education, and Partnerships team at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

The intern will undergo a two-week acclimation period where they will experience the park and all it has to offer, including the battlefields, hiking trails, and historic areas such as Lower Town and Camp Hill. Once completed, the intern will receive further training and will do the work of public history, including:

Formal Interpretation

• The intern will research and develop a formal program to present to the public encompassing the whole history of Harpers Ferry

• The intern will have the opportunity to develop an additional program on a relevant topic of their choice

• The intern will have the opportunity to learn and present formal Living History and Education programs

Informal Interpretation

• The intern will staff the Visitor Contact Station Desk, greeting visitors as they arrive and orienting them to the park

• The intern will rove high-trafficked areas of the park, contacting visitors and providing any assistance they may need

• The intern may periodically staff exhibits in the Lower Town of Historic Harpers Ferry, providing orientation and informal interpretation relevant to the exhibit and the park’s history

• The intern may provide support for educational group visits to the park

• The intern will be introduced to digital interpretation and assist with the park’s social media team

Other duties

• The intern will have the opportunity for cross-training with other park teams

• The intern will assist park staff with special events such as concerts

Environmental and physical considerations

• Hiking trails in the park range from easy, short walks, to strenuous hikes of 6 to 8 miles.

• The intern may be asked to lift objects up to 30lbs such as plastic tables and chairs

• Summer temperatures in Harpers Ferry often exceed 90° with high humidity

National Park Service – Network to Freedom

National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom

Education and Interpretation Intern

In 1998, legislation titled the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Act of 1998 was passed, creating the Network to Freedom program. This program honors, preserves and promotes the history of resistance to enslavement through escape and flight, which continues to inspire people worldwide. Through its mission, the Network to Freedom helps to advance the idea that all human beings embrace the right to self-determination and freedom from oppression.

The program is a catalyst for innovation, partnerships, and scholarship connecting the diverse legacy of the Underground Railroad across boundaries and generations. The program consists of sites, programs, and facilities with a verifiable connection to the Underground Railroad. There are currently over 800 Network to Freedom locations in 41 states, plus Washington D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada.

This is an internship working for the Networks to Freedom but could be based either in the region (for instance, at the First State National Park in DE) or in another location such as Boston. Please state which location would work best for you.

New-York Historical Society Museum and Library, Museum Education Internship

New York City

Hybrid, part-time position

As an intern with the Education Department, the intern will work with a department that serves more than 200,000 students each year, and nearly 5,000 teachers. Our extensive range of school programs engage students from early elementary school through high school in American history, and introduce young historians to research skills through primary sources and digital media projects. Professional development programs and curriculum resources for teachers foster learning and invite exciting opportunities for classrooms to explore history in new ways.

Citizenship Project Internship

New York’s first museum, The New York Historical is a leading cultural institution documenting over 400 years of American history through a peerless collection of art, documents, and artifacts. The New York Historical's Education Department serves more than 200,000 students and nearly 10,000 teachers each year through an extensive range of programs, and has engaged over 10,000 adult learners through the groundbreaking initiative, The Citizenship Project, which offers free civics test preparation classes for green card holders. This summer, we are seeking an intern to support the Citizenship Project. Working under the supervision of the Manager of the Citizenship Project, the intern's responsibilities will include research, program support, and administrative tasks. The intern in this position will gain experience in program planning and management, education best practices, and office administration.

The internship will run from June 9 until August 15, 2025, with both remote and on-site days. The internship is a total of 180 hours (18/hrs per week), and interns are required to be available virtually each Wednesday from 4-5 pm, and in-person each Thursday and Friday.

Public Religion Research Institute, Research Internship

Washington, D.C.

Hybrid, full-time position-

Position Summary:

PRRI offers one research internship during the summer semester to an outstanding student who is currently enrolled in an accredited college or university. Interns will assist with a variety of tasks related to survey research and production. Research interns will aid in all aspects of the research process, including the development of survey questionnaires, data analysis, and the production of research reports.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct background research for research reports

• Compile lists previously asked questions on research topics

• Number check reports and materials for media outlets and funders

• Assist with brainstorming and writing of blog posts for PRRI website

• Assist with survey design and writing survey reports

Qualifications:

• Currently in the process of earning a bachelor's or master's degree in political science, religious studies, psychology, journalism, communications, or related field

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, detail-oriented

• Demonstrated interest in religion, politics, and cultural issues

• Experience using Microsoft Office applications (e.g. Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel)

• Prior experience with statistical analysis software programs such as R, RStudio, or Stata is a plus, but not required

Benefits:

• Get to be part of a friendly and welcoming team

• Gain a better understanding of the research process – including designing and conducting survey research in the real world

• Learn how to effectively interpret survey data and how to connect findings to current events

• Gain access to network connections and career mentoring

• Get the opportunity to publish your own spotlight analyses on PRRI’s website

Schedule:

Summer interns are generally expected to work a full 40-hour week during regular office hours, although there is flexibility. Interns should expect to work from the office for two days per week, with remote work for the remaining days. A transportation stipend will be provided as needed.

PRRI is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women, people of color, and other members of underrepresented groups who will contribute to the diversity of our staff.

Smithsonian American Art Museum, Curatorial/Exhibitions Internship

Washington, D.C.

Hybrid, full-time position

The selected intern will work with Eleanor Harvey, Senior Curator, and Jill Rothschild, Luce Curatorial Fellow on the reinstallation of the 18th and 19th century galleries, and the re-envisioning of the Luce Center (the museum’s visible storage space).The intern will be an integral part of those projects: brainstorming for themes and developing priority lists for the artworks in each space; attending meetings with the museum’s Native American community engagement colleagues, and beginning to develop the interpretive framework for addressing this moment in the museum's permanent galleries.

Qualifications:Familiarity with 19th and early 20th century American art history and history.Advanced research skills (library, archive, online searches)Experience with community engagement and/or museum interpretation preferred.

Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, Research Assistant Internship, Washington, D.C.  

Hybrid, full-time position - The Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery tells the history of the United States through individuals who have shaped its culture. Through the visual arts, performing arts and new media, the Portrait Gallery portrays poets and presidents, visionaries and villains, actors and activists whose lives tell the American story. The National Portrait Gallery is charged with recognizing, through portraiture, the lives of individuals who have made significant contributions to American history and culture. It is both an art museum and a museum of history and biography. 

The internship works for the office of the Historian at the National Portrait Gallery. The incumbent will assist senior staff in researching topics related to upcoming exhibitions. The intern will also help with department and museum management by assisting with administrative duties related to the scholarship center of the National Portrait Gallery. 

Successful candidates must have excellent skills in research and writing and an avid interest in the intersections between art, history and biography. Skills in Excel and website management desirable. Ideal candidates are resourceful, interested in research and writing about art as well as about history, and able to work both independently and on a team.

Interns will be expected to work three days in-person at the National Portrait Gallery, and the remaining two days virtually. 

Society for Woman's Health Research, Communications and Policy Internship

Washington, D.C.

Remote or in-person (up to intern), full-time position 

As recently as the 1990s, women were routinely excluded from medical research and there was a profound lack of awareness that health conditions and treatments can affect women and men differently. The Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) led the way to making women’s health a national priority, forever changing how medical research is conducted. SWHR is a 30-year-old education and advocacy nonprofit based in Washington, D.C. A highly respected thought leader in promoting research on biological sex differences in disease, SWHR is dedicated to improving women’s health through science, policy, and education.

Position Summary:

The communications and policy intern will support efforts across SWHR’s science, policy, and communications departments to support SWHR’s mission to promote research on biological sex differences in disease and improve women’s health through its science, policy, and education work as well as to increase the impact and influence of SWHR’s work.

From a communications capacity, the intern can expect to support the drafting and implementation of communications plans to promote SWHR’s events and resources; conduct outreach to peer organizations and media outlets about SWHR materials; update the SWHR website; draft content for SWHR social media channels; write blog posts; monitor media channels and compile regular coverage roundups; and provide graphic design assistance, as needed.

The intern will also support SWHR’s policy work. The intern can expect to attend Policy Advisory Council meetings and other coalition meetings; draft policy takeaways documents and blogs; support policy research and tracking through the organization's legislative tracker; assist in preparing advocay resources including toolkits, fact sheets, social media posts, and more. 

Essential Responcibilities:

• Develop communications products, such as blog posts and fact sheets.
• Support the design and creation of a wide range of SWHR resources and materials, which may include, but is not limited to, toolkits, guides, fact sheets, and infographics.
• Differentiate graphics for optimization across social channels (X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram) and communications channels (email, website, printed posters).
• Create video clips (mainly for social media) from event recordings.
• Draft messages for SWHR social media channels, including Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
• Monitor traditional media and social media for relevant news about SWHR and its scientific and legislative priorities.
• Monitor ongoing policy issues and update SWHR’s legislative tracker.
• Assist in development of email blasts about SWHR events and news and conduct outreach to partner organizations.
• Attend SWHR events and partner events such as meetings, webinars, and Capitol Hill briefings, as needed.
• Conduct research and support writing efforts related to SWHR’s regulatory and legislative needs.
• Work with other SWHR staff to ensure unified communications on behalf of the organization.
• Complete other communications, policy, and administrative activities as assigned.
• Represent SWHR’s mission to improve upon the lack of women’s health research through supporting advancements in public policy, health care interventions, and gaps in research.

Qualifications:

• Undergraduate student (who has completed their sophomore year) working toward a degree in communications, public relations, or another relevant subject.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with high attention to detail.
• Experience with social media platforms and management.
• Highly organized with ability to multitask.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
• Familiarity with WordPress website platform is a plus.
• Experience with digital design platforms including but not limited to Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign) or Canva preferred.
• Familiarity with video editing (on Canva or QuickTime) a plus.
• Interest in policy and government work is a plus.
• Experience working at a creative agency is desirable, but not required.

U.S. House of Representatives, Office of the Historian, Washington D.C.

Research Externship

Hybrid full-time position-

For a hybrid schedule, intern must be available  to work 2-3 days on-site per week.

Based at the U.S. Capitol, the Office of the Historian preserves, collects, and interprets the heritage of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving as the institution’s memory and a resource for Members, staff, and the general public.

The Office of the Historian seeks an extern with a strong interest in history or political science, writing and research. The extern will conduct congressional research through the use of databases, microfilm, and paper records. This research will be used for office print and web publications as well as reference requests. The extern will assist staff with general office duties. The intern must be highly motivated, collaborative, and possess excellent research and computer skills.

Assignments will be distributed via Google shared folders so students will require a Gmail account. Office staff will communicate with students via email and Zoom during the externship. Students should have access to most of these electronic resources for completing assignments:

• HeinOnline database (specifically “U.S. Federal” portion);
• Nexis;
• Nineteenth Century Newspapers (via Gale databases)
• Proquest Congressional

  Interns may assist with the following tasks, including:

  • historical and biographical research
    • educational content creation and outreach
    • archival and object processing
    • object, photo, and record preservation
    • curatorial content creation
    • other special projects as assigned

       

Winterthur Museum, Gardens and Library, Academic Programs and Library Intern

About Winterthur: Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library (http://www.winterthur.org) supports interdisciplinary humanities research related to America’s material past in a global context. Winterthur’s diverse collections include tens of thousands of objects, manuscripts, printed materials, and research resources that have been mined regularly by scores of leading humanities scholars throughout the last seventy years.

Winterthur is the premier museum of American decorative arts, with an unparalleled collection of nearly 90,000 objects made or used in America between about 1640 and 1860. The collection is displayed in a 175-room house, much as it was when the du Pont family lived here, as well as in permanent and changing exhibition galleries.

Designed by Henry Francis du Pont, Winterthur’s 60-acre naturalistic garden is among America’s best, with magnificent specimen plantings and mass displays of color. The estate is set amidst a 1,000-acre preserve of rolling meadows and woodlands.

Interns at Winterthur enjoy an environment that is rich in culture and natural beauty while contributing specific skills and upholding the core values of the organization.

About the Academic Programs Department Internship: This is an excellent opportunity for an intern interested in history, museums, libraries, or other aspects of material culture to be immersed in the exciting and dynamic Academic Programs Department which includes Winterthur Portfolio, the Research Fellowship Program, and two graduate programs, WPAMC and WUDPAC. Interns at Winterthur will gain experience in gathering data and creating content and marketing materials related to the Visiting Research Fellowship Program; will interact with and assist a cohort of global scholars, artists, and craftspeople studying material culture; and depending on the interests of the intern, may provide general assistance with outreach related to our in-house journal, the Winterthur Portfolio: A Journal of American Material Culture, the Research Fellowship Program, and the Winterthur Program in American Material Culture.

The intern will get hands-on training and hone skills in editing, research, and communications with the staff of Winterthur’s research fellowship program. Winterthur’s Research Fellowship Program awards 25-35 fellowships each year to academics, graduate students, artists, makers, and craftspeople to support collections-based research for exhibits, books, art installations, and much more. Duties will include assisting staff in organizing colloquia, interfacing with researchers, gathering annual data and project information from fellows, coordinating social media posts to publicize the program and its activities, and other duties as assigned.

Winterthur’s in-house academic journal, Winterthur Portfolio, is an interdisciplinary journal of American material culture. As time allows and if interests of the intern align, they may be involved with preparing social media related to recent and forthcoming issues of WP, reading and evaluating manuscripts, and other duties as assigned. This internship is ideal for students who have an interest or background in the humanities or social sciences and/or writing and communications. It is also geared towards students who are looking to get firsthand museum experience in a fun but intellectually rigorous setting. This internship is ideal for students who like to work independently, are creative, and enjoy research, meeting a wide range of people, and learning new things.