The U.S. Department of State is now accepting applications until April 12 or once 1,000 students have applied for its paid internship program, set to begin in fall 2022.
The program is part of the department's ongoing effort to reflect the nation's diversity by providing opportunities for “traditionally underrepresented groups,” an April 4 State Department news release reported. The agency wants to provide paid internships so students without the financial means to support themselves have opportunities outside volunteer internships.
“The program is intended to expand opportunities for students of all backgrounds in post-secondary degree programs to gain experience and insight into the variety of careers available in U.S. foreign policy programs and administration of the U.S. Department of State and its diplomatic missions worldwide,” the release said.
According to the release, applicants must be U.S citizens of at least 18 years of age, enrolled at an accredited academic institution at least part time and be pursuing a baccalaureate or graduate degree with good academic standing with at least a 3.0 GPA. They also must be a college junior, senior or graduate student with at least 60 credit hours completed. They must be able to pass and retain a clean background check.
The interns’ pay will be $17.51 an hour. Transportation to and housing at their stations will be provided whether they work in Washington, D.C. or overseas. Annual leave, sick leave and time-in-service credit will be earned by the interns, the release said. By 2023, the State Department wants to make all of its internships paid.
