How do I get an Internship?

These are methods to help you find the right internship for you.

• Spend some time thinking about what type of internship experience you are interested in completing
• Brainstorm a list of organizations you would like to intern.  
• Meet with your academic department's Internship Coordinator
• Talk to potential employers at career and internship fairs.
• Remember, if you do not find an internship experience listed with the organization you're interested in, go directly to the source and inquire further!  Visiting the employer website can provide you with details on any internship programs they may have, or provide you with the information you need to inquire further.
• Don't forget to check on LinkedIn as well, where you can search for internship and entry-level job postings with companies related to people in your LinkedIn network.
• Reach out to your network via an informational interview, and make sure you ask where the person you are interviewing would recommend starting to look for internships in your field of interest.
• Make sure to fill out all of your paperwork correctly when applying for a posted internship! 
• Need more help?  Check out all the different ways that the Career Development Center can assist you!
• Check out the organizations’ websites and learn about their mission, noteworthy items that have been in the news, new program developments, and staff members.
• Handshake is a great resource for researching organizations that are specifically invested in Minnesota State Mankato students (See link to Video/Screencast below)
• Talk with people in your network to see if anyone has additional information about the organization you are interested in—often they have the “off the record” scoop and you can learn a lot from trusted sources.
• Keep organized notes on your findings to use as a resource in the application and interview process.
• Utilize your notes to form solid questions that you will ask at the end of your interview. You will impress them if you say “Upon doing some research, I found ____. Can you tell me more about this?”
• In any interactions with employers, know that they are the experts. Approach conversations with curiosity, not authority.

   

  Current Internship Openings

  Business Associate Intern

  Company descriptionWorld Salon is an innovative startup transforming professional development through AI-enhanced networking and seminars. Our platform connects professionals across finance, technology, and ESG sectors, fostering meaningful collaborations and growth. We leverage cutting-edge AI to facilitate transformative discourse and idea exchange among industry leaders and visionaries. Job description We are looking for a proactive Business Associate Intern to champion our AI-driven networking platform. In this role, you will use your exceptional communication skills to build strong relationships with clients and partners, ensuring their needs and visions are fulfilled. Your extroverted nature and attention to detail will help you expand our client base, drive strategic partnerships, and enhance overall client satisfaction. Your mission will be to leverage our platform’s capabilities to deliver exceptional value and impact. Probationary Period PolicyDuration: 12 Work WeeksPay: During the probationary period, no base salary but eligible for bonuses of up to $500 per deal. After the probationary period, the base salary can range from $1,300-$1,800 per month based on performance during the probationary period.Objective: Evaluate performance, Behavior, and Sales Targets.Assessment:Weekly check-ins with your manager to track progress.Performance evaluation based on sales made or revenue generated during this period. Outcomes:Successful completion → Continued employment with eligibility for both base pay and commission bonuses (retroactive for commission earned during probation).Additional support or training → Extension of probation to address specific areas for improvement.Unsatisfactory performance → Termination of employment.Note: Commission bonuses earned during the probationary period will be paid upon completion. Detailed feedback will be provided throughout the process to ensure transparency and growth opportunities.  What we offer :Innovative Environment: Work with cutting-edge AI technology and play a key role in revolutionizing event and community/network buildingCareer Growth: Opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and career advancement within a dynamic startup.Collaborative Culture: Join a team of forward-thinkers in a collaborative and supportive work environment.Impactful Work: Be part of a mission-driven company that connects professionals across diverse sectors, fostering transformative ideas and partnerships.Flexible Work Options: Enjoy flexibility with remote work options and a work-life balance that suits your needs.Mentorship and Learning Outcomes: Regular feedback and mentoring will be provided through weekly check-ins, focusing on sales goals, revenue generation, and skill development.Academic Credit Eligibility: This position may qualify for academic credit, depending on the student’s academic department and major-specific criteria. While credit approval is determined by faculty members in the student’s academic department—not the employer—our team is committed to supporting students through the process (Refer to Credit Process section below for more information). Key requirements/ Qualifications :Currently pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree.   Exceptional Communication Skills: You possess outstanding communication abilities, enabling you to convey information clearly and persuasively.Product Knowledge: You have a deep understanding of our products and can effectively articulate their features and benefits.Sales Expertise: You are skilled at identifying opportunities and closing sales, consistently meeting or exceeding targets.Client-Centric Approach: You excel at understanding clients' needs and requirements, tailoring solutions to meet their specific objectives.Value Proposition Articulation: You can clearly explain how our products provide value and benefits to clients, enhancing their business outcomes.Proactive Engagement: You take initiative by making calls, booking meetings, and actively selling our products to prospective clients.Leadership Experience: Students with experience running school clubs or organizations are encouraged to apply, as they demonstrate leadership and organizational skills.Incentive Structure: While this role is unpaid, a bonus structure is in place, offering the potential to earn up to $500 per subscription sale.Legal Compliance: We adhere to legal guidelines by offering a bonus structure, as direct payment is not permitted.Fluency in English: Must possess excellent proficiency in the English language, ensuring clear and effective communication with clients and team members. Responsibilities :Client Acquisition and Relationship Building:Identify and engage potential clients, including industry leaders, innovators, and thought leaders, to expand the platform’s user base.Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key clients to ensure ongoing engagement and satisfaction.AI-Driven Networking Solutions:Present and demonstrate the unique capabilities of the AI-driven networking platform to prospective clients.Develop tailored strategies to showcase how the platform can facilitate transformative discourse and collaboration for their specific needs.Strategic Partnership Development:Forge strategic partnerships with organizations, industry groups, and thought leaders to enhance the platform’s credibility and reach.Collaborate with partners to integrate their insights and expertise into the platform, driving added value for users.Campaign and Initiative Management:Design and manage initiatives that leverage the platform’s AI features to create impactful networking events and idea exchanges.Track and evaluate the success of these initiatives, making data-driven recommendations for continuous improvement.Customized Solution Development:Work with clients to understand their specific networking and collaboration needs.Develop and propose customized solutions that leverage AI to meet these needs and foster transformative interactions.*Credit Process:Students are responsible for consulting their academic department to ensure this role aligns with program requirements (e.g., hours completed, outcomes).We will collaborate with students to complete any forms required by faculty to assist with the credit approval process.Note: Academic credit is not guaranteed or offered as compensation for this role. Students should contact their faculty internship coordinator to confirm eligibility.

  Military & Political Power Research Spring 2026 Internship

  Internship OpportunitiesThe Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) is a nonpartisan policy institute dedicated exclusively to promoting pluralism, defending democratic values, and fighting the ideologies that threaten democracy. The organization was founded shortly after 9/11 by a group of visionary philanthropists and policymakers to engage in the worldwide war of ideas and to support the defense of democratic societies under assault by terrorism and anti-Western groups. FDD combines policy research, investigative journalism, strategic communications, and democracy and counterterrorism education.About FDD's Internship Program Based in downtown Washington, D.C., the Foundation for Defense of Democracies has a number of internship opportunities available. All FDD interns will have the opportunity to participate in a twice-monthly speaker series, which brings high-level DC officials and senior staff members to engage with interns in an intimate setting. FDD interns will be encouraged to build on their academic skills by working closely with senior staff. FDD is also happy to assist students who wish to earn academic credit for this internship. All interns are eligible for a stipend and will be required to complete specific government documentation before this stipend is paid.*FDD will move forward with both hybrid and remote internship options for the Spring 2026 semester.*Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. It is recommended that interested candidates submit applications early. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The Center on Military and Political PowerThe Center on Military and Political Power is looking for part-time or full-time interns. CMPP is a center at FDD that promotes understanding of the defense strategies, policies, and capabilities necessary to deter and defeat threats to the freedom, security, and prosperity of Americans and our allies by providing rigorous, timely, and relevant research and analysis. Interns will work closely with CMPP Senior Director Bradley Bowman on a variety of projects related to U.S. defense strategy and policy. Qualified candidates will have a demonstrated record of excellence, including strong research and writing skills. Additional information on CMPP may be found here. EligibilityMust have at least a 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).Should have a relevant course of study and have completed coursework in any of the following fields: International Relations, Security Studies, History, Communications, Journalism, International Economics, Political Science. Computer science, and/or a relevant STEM field of study.Interns should have knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, including Word, as well as basic Excel skills.Must be able to commit to a minimum of 22 hours per week.Must be eligible to work in the United States.Application Materials RequiredResume/CVCover letter (Please review our website and include which FDD projects and issue areas resonate with you and why. Also indicate where you found this internship and your availability for the semester.)Writing Sample (no more than 3 pages)Unofficial transcript copyPlease specify the department(s) for which you would like to be considered (feel free to indicate preferences) in your cover letter. While you may use the same cover letter for multiple positions, please submit a separate application for each position of interest.Incomplete applications will not be considered.

  Israel Program Research Spring 2026 Internship

  Internship OpportunitiesThe Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) is a nonpartisan policy institute dedicated exclusively to promoting pluralism, defending democratic values, and fighting the ideologies that threaten democracy. The organization was founded shortly after 9/11 by a group of visionary philanthropists and policymakers to engage in the worldwide war of ideas and to support the defense of democratic societies under assault by terrorism and anti-Western groups. FDD combines policy research, investigative journalism, strategic communications, and democracy and counterterrorism education.About FDD's Internship Program Based in downtown Washington, D.C., the Foundation for Defense of Democracies has a number of internship opportunities available. All FDD interns will have the opportunity to participate in a twice-monthly speaker series, which brings high-level DC officials and senior staff members to engage with interns in an intimate setting. FDD interns will be encouraged to build on their academic skills by working closely with senior staff. FDD is also happy to assist students who wish to earn academic credit for this internship. All interns are eligible for a stipend and will be required to complete specific government documentation before this stipend is paid.*FDD's Israel program will move forward with both hybrid and remote internship options for the Spring 2026 semester.*Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. It is recommended that interested candidates submit applications early. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Israel Program Research InternshipThe Israel Program is seeking full-time or part-time intern. The intern will work closely with the FDD research team to conduct research on Israel, Palestinian politics, international organizations and other related topics. Projects tend to focus on regional developments, politics, foreign relations, and national security. Those with an interest in the Middle East and foreign policy are strongly encouraged to apply. If there is a particular FDD project area of interest to you, please indicate that in your cover letter. The Research Department is looking for interns with research experience and strong writing capabilities. The ability to conduct research in a foreign language especially Arabic or Hebrew is a plus but not required. EligibilityMust have at least a 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).Should have a relevant course of study and have completed coursework in any of the following fields: International Relations, Security Studies, History, Communications, Journalism, International Economics, Political Science. Computer science, and/or a relevant STEM field of study.Interns should have knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, including Word, as well as basic Excel skills.Must be able to commit to a minimum of 22 hours per week.Must be eligible to work in the United States.Application Materials RequiredResume/CVCover letter (Please review our website and include which FDD projects and issue areas resonate with you and why. Also indicate where you found this internship and your availability for the semester.)Writing Sample (no more than 3 pages)Unofficial transcript copyPlease specify the department(s) for which you would like to be considered (feel free to indicate preferences) in your cover letter. While you may use the same cover letter for multiple positions, please submit a separate application for each position of interest.Incomplete applications will not be considered.

  Russia Program Research Spring 2026 Internship

  Internship OpportunitiesThe Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) is a nonpartisan policy institute dedicated exclusively to promoting pluralism, defending democratic values, and fighting the ideologies that threaten democracy. The organization was founded shortly after 9/11 by a group of visionary philanthropists and policymakers to engage in the worldwide war of ideas and to support the defense of democratic societies under assault by terrorism and anti-Western groups. FDD combines policy research, investigative journalism, strategic communications, and democracy and counterterrorism education.About FDD's Internship Program Based in downtown Washington, D.C., the Foundation for Defense of Democracies has a number of internship opportunities available. All FDD interns will have the opportunity to participate in a twice-monthly speaker series, which brings high-level DC officials and senior staff members to engage with interns in an intimate setting. FDD interns will be encouraged to build on their academic skills by working closely with senior staff. FDD is also happy to assist students who wish to earn academic credit for this internship. All interns are eligible for a stipend and will be required to complete specific government documentation before this stipend is paid.*FDD's internship program will move forward with both hybrid and remote internship options for the Spring 2026 semester.*Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. It is recommended that interested candidates submit applications early. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Russia ResearchThe Russia Research Program is seeking full-time or part-time interns. Interns will work under John Hardie, deputy director of FDD’s Russia Program, to conduct research on projects related to Russia. Projects will focus on topics including the Russian military, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and Western economic warfare with Russia. Those with an interest in Russia and foreign policy are strongly encouraged to apply. FDD is looking for interns with research experience and strong writing skills. The ability to conduct research in a foreign language — particularly Russian or Ukrainian — is a plus but not required.EligibilityMust have at least a 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).Should have a relevant course of study and have completed coursework in any of the following fields: International Relations, Security Studies, History, Communications, Journalism, International Economics, Political Science. Computer science, and/or a relevant STEM field of study.Interns should have knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, including Word, as well as basic Excel skills.Must be able to commit to a minimum of 22 hours per week.Must be eligible to work in the United States.Application Materials RequiredResume/CVCover letter (Please review our website and include which FDD projects and issue areas resonate with you and why. Also indicate where you found this internship and your availability for the semester.)Writing Sample (no more than 3 pages)Unofficial transcript copyPlease specify the department(s) for which you would like to be considered (feel free to indicate preferences) in your cover letter. While you may use the same cover letter for multiple positions, please submit a separate application for each position of interest.Incomplete applications will not be considered.

  Communications Spring 2026 Internship

  Internship OpportunitiesThe Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) is a nonpartisan policy institute dedicated exclusively to promoting pluralism, defending democratic values, and fighting the ideologies that threaten democracy. The organization was founded shortly after 9/11 by a group of visionary philanthropists and policymakers to engage in the worldwide war of ideas and to support the defense of democratic societies under assault by terrorism and anti-Western groups. FDD combines policy research, investigative journalism, strategic communications, and democracy and counterterrorism education.About FDD's Internship Program Based in downtown Washington, D.C., the Foundation for Defense of Democracies has a number of internship opportunities available. All FDD interns will have the opportunity to participate in a twice-monthly speaker series, which brings high-level DC officials and senior staff members to engage with interns in an intimate setting. FDD interns will be encouraged to build on their academic skills by working closely with senior staff. FDD is also happy to assist students who wish to earn academic credit for this internship. All interns are eligible for a stipend and will be required to complete specific government documentation before this stipend is paid.*FDD's Communications department will move forward with a hybrid internship for the Spring 2026 semester.*Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. It is recommended that interested candidates submit applications early. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The Communications DepartmentThe Communications Department is seeking full-time and part-time interns with an interest in foreign policy, journalism, communications and public relations, social and digital media, web design, and marketing. Interns will experience Washington’s fast-paced media environment and see first-hand how policy and media intersect. Interns will monitor the organization's media profile, assist in tracking media metrics, assist in developing contacts in broadcast/print media, utilize writing skills to synthesize research products, help craft social media content, and many other communications activities. At the end of the term, interns will have developed and diversified their skills to further their careers as communications professionals, reporters, public relations representatives, and Capitol Hill press relations staffers. Applicants must be hard working and eager to learn new skills. Strong writing skills desired. Knowledge of Microsoft Office is a must; experience with website content management systems and HTML are desirable but not required. Internship includes a great speaker series, career support and professional skill-building. EligibilityMust have at least a 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).Should have a relevant course of study and have completed coursework in any of the following fields: International Relations, Security Studies, History, Communications, Journalism, International Economics, Political Science. Computer science, and/or a relevant STEM field of study.Interns should have knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, including Word, as well as basic Excel skills.Must be able to commit to a minimum of 22 hours per week.Must be eligible to work in the United States.Application Materials RequiredResume/CVCover letter (Please review our website and include which FDD projects and issue areas resonate with you and why. Also indicate where you found this internship and your availability for the semester.)Writing Sample (no more than 3 pages)Unofficial transcript copyPlease specify the department(s) for which you would like to be considered (feel free to indicate preferences) in your cover letter. While you may use the same cover letter for multiple positions, please submit a separate application for each position of interest.Incomplete applications will not be considered.