Apply to a wide range of internship opportunities available to you only in D.C. Try out the career of your dreams, develop your skills, build your resume, make lifelong connections, and gain future job prospects.

Cornell in Washington’s internship records feature more than 1,000 internships secured by previous CIW students, a plethora of internship search resources and one-on-one advising with our associate director. We are not able to directly place students into internships – the organizations have their own selection process – but our staff can help students be competitive for the most selective internships by helping students with resume development, crafting cover letters, and honing their interview skills.

• You can begin searching and applying to internships before or after you have been accepted to the CIW program.
• CIW is not an internship placement program. Participants secure their own internship with assistance from CIW.
• The earlier and more often you submit applications the better your chances are of finding an internship.
• Internships can be either paid or unpaid.
• No academic credit is earned for the internship unless required for your academic program.

Spring students

If you’re attending CIW in the spring, we recommend you work three days a week, (typically Mon – Wed), approximately 20-30 hours per week. This schedule will allow you time for academic work, for touring Washington, and for the occasional trip to Ithaca or home. Spring CIW classes are held in the evenings on Mon, Tues & Wed and during the day on Thur & Fri.

Summer students

Summer participants typically work full time internships. We remind you to keep in mind your class schedule when setting up work commitments. Summer CIW classes are held in the evening only.

ILR Students

ILR students may participate in Cornell in Washington. ILR students may participate in off-campus programs beginning their junior year. Inform Brigid Beachler of your plan to join CIW (607.255.2266, bk30@cornell.edu).

International Students

International students who are in paid positions should apply for CPT work authorization. While a student is enrolled, an international student’s internship cannot be more than 20 hours per week.