Drug Policy Alliance, the country's leading independent drug policy reform organization, seeks two interns each semester in our Washington, D.C., legislative affairs office. Applicants should either be pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, or have received their degree within one year of the start date of the applicable internship semester. Interns will work closely with staff to research policy issues, develop issue briefs, analyze federal legislation and assist with administrative work. See the Introduction to the Office of National Affairs Internship Program for more program details. We will be happy to work with students to obtain credit towards coursework.

Qualification: Interns must possess strong research, writing, and communication skills. Applicants should be able to demonstrate effective problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to multi-task without constant supervision. Individuals with the desire and ability to work in a self-starter organization are especially encouraged to apply. Interns should demonstrate interest in drug policy reform. Some prior experience in policy research and administrative affairs is preferred but not necessary.

Deadlines/Available Positions

Fall 2011 Internship: September 12 – November 18, 2011

• Part-time – a minimum of 24 hours per week
• August 31, 2011 is the deadline for applying

Spring 2012 Internship: January 9 – April 27, 2012

• Part-time - a minimum of 24 hours per week
• November 2, 2011 is the deadline for applying

Summer 2012 Internship: May 28 - August 17, 2012

• Part-time – a minimum of 24 hours per week
• March 14, 2012 is the deadline for applying

Fall 2012 Internship: September 10 – December 14, 2012

• Part-time - a minimum of 24 hours per week
• July 6, 2012 is the deadline for applying

To apply: Please send a cover letter specifying the program and dates you are interested in along with a resume, at least two professional references and brief (2-4 page) writing sample (applicable to drug policy reform when possible) to:

Grant Smith, Office of National Affairs, Federal Policy Coordinator
by email: gsmith [at] drugpolicy [dot] org
or by fax: 202-216-0803

Individuals who have either completed or are seeking a graduate degree should apply for the graduate position. Individuals who are currently enrolled in an undergraduate program, or will have completed an undergraduate program by the internship start date, should apply for an undergraduate position. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Applicants normally receive a response after the application deadline has passed.

What former interns have said:

• Elizabeth Thompson, interned Spring 2010: Interning with the Drug Policy Alliance’s Office of National Affairs was an incredible experience. During my time there I was able to attend legislative hearings, congressional briefings, and coalition meetings, and had the opportunity to conduct numerous substantive research and writing projects on a variety of federal drug policy issues. The entire staff was brilliant and went out of their way to ensure that my experience was memorable, educational, and productive. I would not be where I am today without the opportunities afforded to me by this internship, and would recommend it to anyone with an interest in drug policy and a passion for change.
• John Collins, interned Fall 2009: Interning for DPA's Office of National Affairs provided me with an amazing work experience. My projects were always interesting and challenging. Right from the outset they had me conducting research for high level lobbying campaigns which allowed me to come up to speed very quickly. Very soon I felt like I was able to contribute as part of the team and getting an incredible first hand experience of how Washington works. Most importantly, I felt I was doing something worthwhile for a cause I really believe in.

The Drug Policy Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, people of color, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We are particularly interested in hiring those who have been adversely affected by the war on drugs.

Note: Only those candidates under consideration will be contacted.