Applications Open for Virtual Student Federal Service Internships

 

The Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS) internship program is a great way to gain experience with hands-on training and work with others across the government. VSFS is a nine-month remote internship open to U.S. citizen students enrolled in higher education at least half-time during the 2022-23 academic year (rising freshmen through PhD). Because the program is virtual, students can complete the internship from anywhere, even while studying abroad.

VSFS has over 600 internship opportunities with more than 30 agencies for the upcoming academic year, including almost 300 opportunities with the Department of State. Some opportunities includes:

U.S.-Africa S&T Partnerships: Help determine options to expand and create science, technology, and research partnerships with Africa

Support the U.S. Delegation to the United Nations Human Rights Council: Track and report on key human rights issues and trends around the world

Regional Progress in South and Central Asia: Work on projects that address regional economic, environmental, climate, and governance issues in South and Central Asia

Latin America Public Diplomacy Reporting: Contribute to the promotion of safe, orderly, and humane migration  

Track and analyze the PRC's influence in Western Europe

For more information on the application process and how to apply:

https://careers.state.gov/interns-fellows/virtual-student-federal-service/how-to-apply/

The time commitment is about 10 hours per week during the school year (Sep-May). Internships are unpaid but may be eligible for course credit (GVPT internship credits possible).

Students may apply for up to three internships and applications are accepted between July 1-28, but posting will close once 300 applications are received so apply early! Selections are made in August and internships start in September.

Some helpful tips:

- Customize your resume and treat the Statement of Interest as your cover letter

- Write out your Statement of Interest for each application in a word doc (spell check) and copy/paste into the application system (and proofread again!)

- Don't wait until the last day or 48 hours to submit your application (submitted applications can be updated before application due date)