Internships

Interns with The Smithsonian Associates are offered unique opportunities to learn about all aspects of educational programming for both adults and children, while contributing extensively to one of the world’s great cultural institutions.

Intern projects both benefit the Institution and complement applicant’s own interests, skills, and experience.

Internships at The Smithsonian Associates are unpaid. College or university credit (based on school requirements) may be given.

Internships are open to both undergraduate and graduate students. No specific credential or work experience is required; however, it is desirable that applicants have a strong interest in TSA's mission and in educational programming and travel in general.

There is no deadline for submitting an intern application, however, TSA internships are highly competitive. Application supporting materials may be submitted as they become available. Prospective interns are required to complete the application form, which includes two short written paragraphs. In addition, the following items are required for consideration:

1. two letters of recommendation from professors
2. a recent writing sample (at least two pages)
3. most recent transcript
4. an interview (in person or over the phone)

Interns at the Smithsonian are required to undergo a security background investigation and fingerprinting through the Office of Protection Services before they are accepted into an internship.

Please mail your application to :

Volunteer Office
The Smithsonian Associates
PO Box 23293
Washington, DC 20026-3293

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Development

Support staff in the Development Office through event planning, creating marketing materials, conducting research on funding sources, and maintaining Web site text for Development and Young Benefactors activities.

Discovery Theater

Support the Discovery Theater staff in all aspects: house management, ticketing and group sales, administration, and production support.

Online Marketing

Support Marketing staff editing images and HTML to be used in e-mail marketing campaigns and on social media sites as well as using Web analytics software to research results from marketing campaigns.

Web & eMarketing

Support Marketing staff writing and editing short descriptions of TSA programs for use on the Web and in the creation of sales copy in e-mail solicitations.

National Education Outreach

Provide support in creating programs for national audiences including conducting research, developing contacts, and assisting with logistics coordination and marketing.

Performing Arts

Work with staff to gain experience in all aspects of program production including programming research, booking, budgets, contract negotiation, season planning, logistical set-up, and marketing.

Public Affairs

Assist with all aspects of publicizing TSA programs, fulfill press requests, and help draft media and calendar releases.

Studio Arts

Provide program support for studio arts courses and workshops and content for the Studio Arts blog, Studio Arts landing page, and facebook fan page.

Summer Camp

Support the Smithsonian Summer Camp team by assisting with the daily running of the 7-week camps, supervision of campers and Youth Teacher Assistants, upkeep of rosters and camper paperwork, parent communication, and supply organization and procurement.