+ Political Affairs Intern

The main responsibilities of the Political Affairs Intern will be organizing events and Congressional delegations to Asia and assisting with the daily operations of the office. Other responsibilities include representing USAI at briefings and congressional hearings and corresponding with legislative staff, as well as researching and writing reports on current issues related to US-Asia relations.

Requirements:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, as demonstrated in the phone interview and the cover letter/writing sample
• Excellent organizational skills and proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Self-motivated and independent
• Excellent research and writing skills
• Knowledge of another East Asian or Southeast Asian language a plus
• Familiarity with various Asian countries through academic studies or professional experiences strongly preferred

“The best part about interning at USAI is the hands-on experience and training we got from being directly involved in the various program from the start to the end.” – Doris, 2018

“One of my favorite parts of the internship was the wide array of activities and programs that we helped organize and execute. From putting on 101 briefings to meeting with Congressmen on the Rule of Law program to hosting the Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam, I was never bored with the work, and I appreciated getting the chance to connect with people from myriad different fields and organizations.” – Evan, 2018

“When I first arrived in Washington, D.C. from California, I didn’t know anyone on this side of the United States. Not only did the U.S.-Asia Institute welcome me with open arms, but they became my friends and family in what was an unfamiliar city at the time. As an intern, USAI empowered me to expand my writing and analytical skills each and every day—and I would not be where I am now without the constant support they have shown to me. I will always be thankful for the U.S.-Asia Institute and an advocate for the important work in people-to-people relations that they do. Beyond the irreplaceable joy of working with such a generous, talented, and driven group of people, my favorite part of this internship was knowing that I made my first contributions to developing strong relations between the United States and Asia at the US-Asia Institute. It is cliché, and often over-used, but as an intern at USAI, you truly make a difference.” – Axel, 2018

+ Communications Intern

The Communications Intern will be responsible for managing the website, exploring and expanding on the Institute’s social media presence, producing brochures and newsletters, as well as assisting with the daily operations of the office. The intern will also work closely with the Political Affairs Intern in attending meetings, organizing events, seeking grants, and corresponding with Hill staff.

Requirements:

• Background and experience in website management and design
• Familiarity working with WordPress and Squarespace
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign
• Experience with different social media platforms
• Execellent writing and organizational skills
• Familiarity with various Asian countries through academic studies or professional experiences strongly preferred

"My favorite aspect of my USAI internship has been the support I have received while I face challenging situations. Managing social media accounts while helping with delegations and events can be quite daunting, but I was fortunate to have worked with some of the most hardworking and dedicated people I have ever met. If I ever felt overwhelmed or confused, Madeline and Mary Sue listened to my ideas and encouraged me to pursue anything I wanted to try. I might have failed and made mistakes for some tasks, but I was repeatedly told that these are lessons for future internships and careers. Additionally, I learned so much about the policymaking world in DC and Asia and I hope to apply this knowledge in a future career. Interning at USAI taught me to never say no to a challenge, a state of mind that will be extremely crucial in my future career." -Aisac, 2019

“My favorite thing about the internship: THE PEOPLE. I have learned so much talking with people around Capitol Hill and working with USAI staff. The collaborative and supportive office environment at USAI makes work all the more fun!” – Emily, 2018

“As an intern as USAI, I love how a lot of the projects we work on are team-oriented, but you still have individual responsibility to complete specific tasks. Every day at USAI is different, and I felt like I got to have ownership over a variety of tasks and projects. I loved getting to meet so many influential people over the summer through USAI events and connections.” – Laurel, 2018

+ Rule of Law Intern

(Available during the summer term, only when advertised)

The Rule of Law Intern will manage the USAI Rule of Law Program. This involves corresponding with legislative staff, scheduling meetings, acting as the liaison between Chinese Fellows and American policymakers.

Requirements:

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Professionalism and strong time management skills
• Experience managing a team
• Extensive knowledge of both Chinese and American cultures
• Command of Mandarin (Preferred)

“What I’ve enjoyed most about this internship has been both the warmth and supportiveness of the office environment, and the interactions and opportunities for cultural and epistemological exchange which USAI’s various programs have afforded me. USAI’s wide range of programs have allowed me to interact with people from many different countries in Asia, and from a wide range of professional and educational backgrounds. I doubt many other internship programs provide interns with anywhere near this much exposure. It has been tremendously helpful for thinking about future career directions.” – Nate, 2018