The Fall 2013 program runs from September 3rd to December 13th, 2013 and the Spring 2014 program runs from January 14th to May 2nd, 2014. The deadline for applications for the Fall program is August 21st, 2013 and for the Spring program is October 25th, 2013. If you have any questions regarding the program, please contact Kristele Pyles at intern_aps@dnc.org or 202-863-8000.
Internship Timeline
| Fall 2013 | Spring 2014 | |
|---|---|---|
| Application Posted | January 28, 2013 | May 13, 2013 |
| Application Deadline | August 21, 2013 | September 15, 2013 |
| Start Date | September 3, 2013 | January 14, 2014 |
| End Date | December 13, 2013 | May 2, 2014 |
FAQ
What is the DNC’s role in Democratic politics?
The DNC performs many roles within Democratic politics, the most important of which is working to elect Democrats at all levels of government, especially the presidency. The DNC also works to help enact the President’s agenda.
As a DNC intern what will I be doing on a daily basis?
Intern responsibilities and tasks vary depending on department, but all interns play an important role in their departments. While all interns will perform some administrative tasks, making copies — filing, etc. — the work you do is vital to the day to day functions and department projects DNC staff are working on. For example:
- Communications allows interns to work closely with the media, collecting daily news clips, formatting press releases, and monitoring television appearances by Democratic surrogates.
What is the dress code at the DNC?
The dress code is business casual.
Do I need to be a Democrat to intern at the DNC?
The DNC expects all interns to be Democrats and registered voters.
How many hours per week should I expect to work?
During the summer months we expect interns to work full time (40 hours). During the fall and spring when students are in school, we ask that interns commit to at least 20 hours per week. However, if you have scheduling issues, please let us know.
Are DNC internships paid?
All DNC internships are on an unpaid, volunteer basis. However, the DNC is proud to offer the Sarah Rosen Fund.
How should I respond to the essay questions?
Each of the essay questions should be answered separately. Each response should be no more than 500 words in length. Do not exceed the word limit.
My school is on the quarter system. Can I still participate?
Yes. You are welcome to apply, as long as you can commit to the full term of the internship program.
Equal Employment Opportunity Policy
The Democratic National Committee (DNC), is committed to diversity among its staff, and recognizes that its continued success requires the highest commitment to obtaining and retaining a diverse staff that provides the best quality services to supporters and constituents. The DNC is an equal opportunity employer and it is our policy to recruit, hire, train, promote and administer any and all personnel actions without regard to sex, race, age, color, creed, national origin, religion, economic status, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity or expression, ethnic identity or physical disability, or any other legally protected basis. The DNC will not tolerate any unlawful discrimination and any such conduct is strictly prohibited.
The Sarah Rosen Fund
The DNC is proud to provide funds for our interns through the Sarah Rosen Fund. The fund provides a travel stipend to defray the costs of local travel on public transportation to and from the DNC headquarters. The DNC will also provide a one time $1,000 stipend for 3–5 interns chosen from all applicants by members of the Rosen family and DNC staff.
About the Sarah Rosen Fund: Sarah Rosen referred to herself as a "professional Democrat." She passionately believed in the Democratic Party. Sarah knew that our nation is at its strongest when Democrats communicate our values and ideals to the American people and live those values by helping those in need. She served as communications director for several members of Congress, and for the state of Arizona during John Kerry's presidential campaign in 2004. Before that, she was an intern.
Sarah understood the need to help those campaign volunteers who slept on supporters’ couches and worked for nothing. She wanted the Democratic Party to be strong, compassionate, and understanding of people’s needs.
On September 30, 2005, Sarah was tragically killed in an auto accident. To honor her memory and to carry out her goals, Sarah’s family raised money to establish the Sarah Rosen Fund to help create the next generation of Democratic leaders. The purpose of the fund is to help defray some of the costs that Interns experience when they come to Washington, D.C. for a DNC internship.
