Become a Current Events Intern
What is an ACE Current Events Intern?
On top of our long-form policy briefs, ACE publishes short informational articles on hot-button issues that are in the news. Our Current Events Interns are responsible for pitching and publishing these current events articles as well as ensuring that all ACE content remains up-to-date with the latest developments. Current Events Interns strengthen their policy research and professional writing skills as they learn to cover controversial issues in a nonpartisan, easy-to-read manner.
Check out the Frequently Asked Questions section at the bottom of this page for more info.
Our Amazing Fellows come from all across the country. To read more about them, click here
Application Deadline
ACE hosts three Current Events Internships per year: Spring, Summer, and Fall. Applications for Current Events Intern positions are evaluated on a rolling basis, so we encourage interested students to apply as early as possible. If a posting is open on our Handshake page, we are still actively accepting applications.
Time Commitment
10- 15 hours per week
Application Process
Step 1
Develop a sense of ACE’s writing style and publication goals by reading published current events articles on our website
Step 2
Visit our Handshake page to see if the team has openings. If your school does not use Handshake, reach out to ella@ace-usa.org for more information on how to apply.
Step 3
Thoroughly read the job description on Handshake and attach all required materials (resume and writing sample are required; cover letter is optional)
Step 4
20 to 30-minute interview with the Director of Policy Research
Step 5
Accept your offer in a timely manner
Step 6
Complete onboarding materials and prepare for a great research cycle at ACE!
OMIT the on-site application; we have been using Handshake exclusively for policy hires since Fall 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this internship for academic credit?
Yes! If your school hosts an internship course or practicum program, you can count your hours at ACE for credit. If you plan to use the Current Events Internship to receive academic credit, make sure to notify the Director of Policy Research at the beginning of the semester and clarify any specific requirements to ensure you receive credit. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure this internship meets all the requirements for academic credit from their institution, and request any necessary information or paperwork at the beginning of the internship.
What is the time commitment for a Current Events Intern?
- We ask students to commit an average of 10 hours per week to this program. ACE recognizes that students juggle multiple commitments, and this Internship is designed to be a feasible addition to your academic courseload and/or work opportunities. The Internship primarily consists of self-scheduled work to meet weekly deadlines, with one weekly meeting that is scheduled with Interns’ availability in mind. We always want to support students in prioritizing their mental health, and can adjust commitments in the event of an emergency. However, regularly completing less than the required hours makes it unlikely for an intern to succeed.
What are the opportunities for advancement through the Current Events Internship?
ACE believes in the power of young leaders and is always looking for hardworking, motivated students to take on leadership positions within the organization. Current Events Interns gain valuable skills including policy research, idea pitching, professional writing, and time management under fast-paced deadlines. Exceptional interns will be invited to continue their positions for multiple cycles, assume leadership roles, and/or contribute freelance articles as alumni.
What makes a successful Current Events Intern?
Current Events Interns can come from any academic discipline or major, so long as they are passionate about empowering voters to make informed decisions with nonpartisan research. While we encourage students with prior experience in policy research and journalistic writing to apply, a willingness to learn and take on new challenges is just as important.
NOTE: Studies have shown that women and BIPOC individuals often hesitate to apply for roles unless they meet or exceed 100% of the listed requirements. We encourage anyone who thinks they have the drive to succeed in this role to apply.