Student participating in a Diplomatic simulation at the U.S. Department of State.

International Affairs

Academic Internship Program Sponsored by The Fund for American Studies

Summer 2025: May 31 – July 26

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Why International Affairs?

If you are looking for a career in foreign policy, intelligence, international development, diplomacy or national security, Washington, D.C. is the place for you.

This TFAS program track is ideal for students who are passionate about global issues and are looking to gain the professional experience needed to break into this competitive field. 

What Makes this Program Track Unique? 
  • An internship placement in the field of international affairs (embassy, international NGO, policy group, federal agency)
  • Coursework in international economics and government designed to complement your real-world experience
  • Guest lectures featuring prominent foreign policy and economics experts
  • Networking through career-focused panels and small group discussions led by professionals working in Public Diplomacy, World Bank, State Department, Defense Consulting, Humanitarian Aid + Relief, Department of Homeland Security, Peace Corps, USAID, CIA, FBI and Intelligence. 

It’s much more than just coursework and an internship placement. The contacts you’ll make throughout the summer will be invaluable in finding that first job out of college.

The Comprehensive Package Includes
  • Roommate matching with other program students based upon compatibility criteria.
  • Easy access to the safe and affordable Metro train and bus system.
  • Full access to campus resources, including libraries, computer labs and much more.
  • Comprehensive orientation to the program, campus and the city upon your arrival.
  • Dedicated program staff members who are available to communicate with you about your internship placement, financial aid and general questions in the months leading up to the program.
  • Continued staff support while you are in Washington to ensure that you have an amazing experience. In addition to the full time, year-round program staff who will get to know you and help you throughout the summer, there will be alumni living in housing and serving as Program Advisors.
  • Site briefings at institutions such as the Department of State, U.S. Institute on Peace, Capitol Hill, CIA, National Defense University and the White House. 
  • Professional development seminars on topics including job searching, public speaking and networking.
  • A mentor program where you are matched with a DC professional working in foreign policy, diplomacy or national security.
  • Planned social events where you can connect with almost 350 other student leaders participating in TFAS programs. These events may include: a trip to a Nationals baseball game, a student BBQ, volunteer projects, canoeing on the Potomac and a trip to Mt. Vernon.
  • An active network of more than 19,000 alumni worldwide to join upon the completion of the program.

“Never before have I been as exposed to so many bright, talented and hardworking individuals as I have through this program. The program is inspirational on the merit of its participants alone, but it goes further to offer so many more opportunities. The program has introduced me to intelligence professionals, foreign diplomats, and various other community and business leaders in D.C.”

Andrew Smith, University of Alabama
Intern, Center for the National Interest
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Sample Schedule

Students should plan to arrive on Saturday, May 31 and will be allowed to check into their on-campus apartments at between 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Orientation activities will be planned for that evening and during the next few days. Students will be required to move out of the apartments on Saturday, July 26 by 11:00 AM. Further details on arrival logistics, registration and orientation will be provided as the summer approaches.

This schedule is only meant to give an idea of the summer’s general structure. It is subject to change according to events and briefings. You will receive updated weekly calendars in class and by e-mail throughout the summer.

Mon
9:00 AM – 5:00 PMInternships
6:00 PM – 7:30 PMElective Courses (optional)
Tues
9:00 AM – 4:00 PMInternships
5:00 PM – 6:30 PMEconomics Course
7:15 PM – 8:30 PMGuest Lecture
Wed
9:00 AM – 5:00 PMInternships
Self-paced Content – All Courses
Thur
9:00 AM – 5:00 PMInternships
6:00 PM – 7:30 PMElective Courses: (optional)
Fri
9:00 AM – 10:30 AMEconomics Courses
12:00 PM – 5:00 PMNetworking Events + Site Briefings