WHO WE ARE
We’re the California Policy Center, a nonprofit organization based in Southern California. Our mission is to secure a freer, more prosperous California by eliminating public-sector barriers to freedom and economic growth, and proposing policy solutions to the state’s most pressing challenges. We do that by working with allies in like-minded organizations, and building community – parents of kids in failing public schools, liberty-minded local officials, activists, and donors who believe as we do in the virtuous, flourishing, voluntary society.
CPC’s internship program provides direction and experience in policy creation, data analysis, communications, fundraising and established programs based on your specific strengths and interests.
WHO YOU ARE
You’re thrilled by the prospect of educating Californians on the virtues of freedom. You’re a policy geek who serves as a translator to everyday people, of all backgrounds, ages, colors, ethnicities and languages. You specifically understand the nuances of local government and the role government unions play in the political ecosystem.
You like people – and people like you. Your network goes beyond party, creed or language. You’re equally comfortable at the desk, in public meetings and out in the community.
Technology doesn’t terrify you: You know MailChimp or something even better. You see how data and digital are necessary in a modern workplace – but also don’t undervalue the importance of relationships.
You are a self-starter and find solutions to tough problems. You’re strategic and entrepreneurial. You thrive on your own but understand your place within a team. You are quick on your feet, manage your time well, and can make tough or strategic decisions.
You’ve got a sense of humor that resonates in your work. You take the work – but not yourself – seriously. You’re kind and joyful even in the face of (metaphorical) sticks, stones and general nastiness.
You’re an innovator: Where others see hurdles, roadblocks or prickly bushes, you see openings.
DETAILS
This program is designed for undergraduate students to serve as a stepping stone in their career by providing real-world experience in the policy field, but high school and graduate students may also apply. While this internship opportunity is unpaid, our internship supervisors can work with you to secure undergraduate college credit towards your degree, if your program offers credit for internships. Excellent interns can also secure professional references by California Policy Center staff to aid them in the next steps of their careers after the internship.
The internship program runs for three terms per year (Spring, Summer, and Fall), for approximately 15 weeks each. The application period for the Fall 2024 term has closed. The next term we accept applications for is Spring 2025.
CPC asks interns for 10-20 hours of work per week, and offers remote or hybrid internship options. We do not currently offer 100% in-person internships. The internship program offers flexibility to allow interns to pursue other academic and professional commitments alongside a CPC internship.
INTERESTED?
California Policy Center values workplace diversity and encourages all interested applicants to send a cover letter and resume to:
Houston Reese (Houston@CalPolicyCenter.org) and Sheridan Swanson (Sheridan@CalPolicyCenter.org).