Student Programs Intern
*To be considered for an internship, you must apply directly through our online application here.*
For almost two decades, The Cato Institute’s Student Programs team has identified and developed future leaders, thinkers, advocates, and supporters of the libertarian movement. The students and rising professionals Cato engages go on to bring a libertarian perspective to impactful careers spanning education, government, media, advocacy, and business.
We are seeking a Student Programs Intern to support Cato’s internship program, alumni engagement efforts, systems and measurement analysis, and strategic relationship building. Ideal candidates for the position are organized, diligent, and entrepreneurial. Strong candidates will be detail-oriented and capable of multitasking while meeting deadlines across a variety of responsibilities. They must possess the necessary interpersonal and communications skills to work effectively with Cato staff, current and former interns, and outside partners.
Responsibilities
Working as a Student Programs Intern offers unique insight into the operations of a policy research organization. Experience in this role will build essential foundations in non-profit business management. The Educational Programs Intern will:
- Assist with the scheduling and execution of Cato’s internship program including communicating with scholars, conference staff, and others.
- Track intern alumni and assist in the growth and use of our alumni network.
- Maintain learning management platforms.
- Provide virtual support as needed for remote events.
- Assist in the establishment of systems and measurement tools and their analysis.
- Support other tasks and projects as needed by the Student Programs team.
Qualifications
- A high degree of professionalism, integrity, humility, and entrepreneurship
- Intermediate skills with Microsoft Office 365, Zoom, and attention to detail
- Strong organizational and interpersonal skills
- Proficiency with Excel and experience with data analytics
- Knowledgeable of libertarian and classical liberal thought and a passion for sharing these ideals with young professionals
- Background in project management a plus
- Background in advertising and outreach a plus
Since 1977, the Cato Institute has been one of the most effective voices in Washington, DC, advocating individual liberty. From media appearances in major outlets, conferences, and book publishing to top-quality research and engagement on Capitol Hill and with key agencies, Cato has successfully injected the libertarian perspective into mainstream policy debates in Washington, DC, and across the country.
About the Cato Internship Program
Cato’s paid internships are for undergraduates, recent graduates, graduate students, law students, and early-career professionals who have a strong commitment to individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace—principles that, taken together, constitute libertarianism, known alternately as “classical liberalism,” “market liberalism,” or, to many of our international friends, just “liberalism.”
All Cato interns attend the same intensive seminar series, which covers a broad range of history, philosophy, policy, and professional development topics. Interns also aid with events and occasionally help Cato staff with other day-to-day needs.
Interns receive competitive compensation. Part-time positions are adjusted accordingly and carry a minimum of 25 hrs./wk. Program participants must be available in person in Washington, D.C.
We encourage you to explore our website for more information about the internship program and experience.
If you have any questions, feel free to email Cortez Bartolome, Programs Coordinator, at studentprograms@cato.org