Become an Editorial Fellow
What is an ACE Editorial Fellow?
ACE is proud to publish policy articles that are nonpartisan, factual, and easy-to-read. Our Editorial Fellows are an integral component of ACE’s policy program, ensuring that all content meets our rigorous writing and content standards prior to publication. Editorial Fellows hone their policy research and editing skills as they review joint reports, policy briefs, and current events articles for accuracy, tone, accessibility, and structure.
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 Editorial Fellowship programs per year: Spring, Summer, and Fall. Applications for Editorial Fellow 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 content 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 Editorial Fellowship 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 an Editorial Fellow?
We ask students to commit an average of 10 hours per week to this program. ACE recognizes that students juggle multiple commitments, and the Editorial Fellowship is designed to be a feasible addition to your academic courseload and/or work opportunities. The Fellowship primarily consists of self-scheduled work to meet weekly deadlines, with one weekly meeting that is scheduled with Fellows’ 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 that students will succeed.
What are the opportunities for advancement through the Editorial Fellows Program?
ACE believes in the power of young leaders and is always looking for hardworking, motivated students to take on leadership positions within the organization. Editorial Fellows gain valuable skills including policy research, structural editing, and copy editing. Exceptional Fellows will be invited to continue their positions for multiple cycles, assume leadership roles, and/or pitch and develop their own written content.
What makes a successful Editorial Fellow?
Editorial Fellows can come from any academic discipline or major, so long as they are passionate about empowering voters to make informed decisions through nonpartisan research. We strongly encourage students with prior experience in editorial work (e.g. school newspaper, magazines, academic journals, etc.) to apply.
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.