25 Political Science Internships for High School Students in 2024
Have you ever wondered how laws get made? Or have you dreamed of working on a political campaign? Political science is the subject of understanding how governments work, how policies are shaped, and how you can be a part of the change you want to see. If you鈥檙e a high school student with a passion for politics and government, an internship can be perfect for an exciting future.
This blog is your one-stop shop for finding the perfect political science internship. We鈥檝e compiled a list of 25 diverse programs across the country. It will give you a chance to experience firsthand the inner workings of government, campaigns, and advocacy organizations. Whether you鈥檙e interested in local issues or global affairs, there鈥檚 an internship out there waiting for you.
1. 杏吧论坛 High School Summer Internship Program
The 杏吧论坛 High School Summer Internship is an intensive 4-week virtual program that provides you with the skills and experience to jumpstart your legal aspirations. Through real-world projects, you鈥檒l gain hands-on exposure to areas like litigation or corporate law, guided by expert mentors who will support you from project development to crafting a standout college application.
But the benefits extend beyond technical skills. Weekly mentorship sessions, practice assessments, an official letter of recommendation, and a director-signed certificate will strengthen your academic profile and impress future law schools or employers. Places are limited to just 50 students, and scholarship applications close soon. Don鈥檛 miss this opportunity to join a global network of ambitious students and take the first step toward your legal future!
2. American Legion Boys Nation
The is a prestigious week-long program held annually in Washington, D.C. It aims to educate high school seniors about the intricacies of the U.S. federal government. Each state, except Hawaii, sends two student representatives who act as senators in a simulated government.
These Senators participate in realistic political processes鈥攆orming party caucuses, working in committees, holding bill hearings, and even electing a Boys Nation President. Boys Nation offers participants enrichment opportunities. They attend lectures from experts, tour federal buildings, visit historical landmarks, and even meet with elected officials from their home states.
3. American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation
The is a prestigious week-long program held annually from July 20th to July 27th. Mirroring the Boys Nation program, it selects two outstanding young women from each state to serve as 鈥渟enators.鈥� These senators work in a simulated government environment, drafting and debating bills and resolutions within a mock legislature.
They also hold elections for key positions like president and vice president. Girls Nation participants gain first-hand exposure to American history and government through visits to iconic landmarks like Washington D.C. monuments, Arlington National Cemetery, and Capitol Hill.
4. Department of Education Student Trainee Volunteers
The Department of Education offers an eight-to-ten-week for high school students accepted into accredited colleges or universities. This program provides work experience in a chosen field of interest, like educational policy (relevant to political science majors), project management, or communications.
Trainees gain professional and personal skills through their assigned duties while also participating in enriching activities like brown bag lunches with department leaders, professional development workshops, and tours of historic Washington, D.C., landmarks. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so interested students can apply at any time.
5. The Florida House of Representatives Messenger Program
Be a part of Florida鈥檚 legislative history by joining the . This long-standing tradition, dating back to 1865, offers high school students an opportunity to witness government in action. Selected students will spend one week out of the 60-day session assisting representatives and their staff while gaining firsthand experience with the legislative process.
Not only will messengers contribute to the daily operations of the House, but they will also have their names recorded in the official Journal of the House, a prestigious honor.
6. Georgia General Assembly House Page Program
The offers a chance for Georgia students aged 12 to 18 to gain firsthand experience with the legislative process. Students participating in the program act as pages, delivering important documents, bills, and letters to legislators in the House Chamber.
This program lasts for one day and allows students to connect with the state鈥檚 elected officials. In addition to the valuable experience, pages are compensated $10 for their service, receive a Chick-fil-A lunch, and are awarded a certificate of service.
7. International Leadership Foundation Youth Leadership Academy
The empowers aspiring high school leaders to become active participants in shaping their communities. Through a week-long intensive seminar, students gain a deeper understanding of American democracy and their unique role within it.
This knowledge is then translated into action through a personalized project. Participants choose between interning, volunteering, or shadowing with a local government agency, non-profit, or community service organization. This hands-on experience allows them to develop essential skills and gain real-world experience, all while giving back to their communities.
8. Kentucky Governor鈥檚 Scholars Program
The is a prestigious five-week summer program designed to nurture the Commonwealth鈥檚 most promising rising high school seniors. This free residential program offers an opportunity for selected students to live on a college campus, build a network with future leaders, and expl