March 12, 2012

Paid political journalism internships in D.C.

Congressional Quarterly, which publishes a variety of newspapers, magazines, books and websites related to political news, is seeking editorial interns year-round.

Congressional Quarterly’s internship program offers an exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced news organization in Washington, D.C. CQ treats its interns like entry-level staff members -- they don’t make copies, fetch coffee or answer phones. Interns work closely with CQ’s editors and reporters and have the opportunity to write stories and obtain clips that will help advance their careers. Several past interns have come back to CQ as staff members.

CQ’s internship program is competitive. Interns generally come to CQ with a profound interest, and at least some experience, in journalism and/or government. Preference is given to juniors and seniors in college, as well as to graduate students.

CQ interns may perform a number of tasks, from covering committee markups and hearings, to attending policy events around town, to conducting legislative research. Past interns have worked with CQ’s specialty publications, including CQ HealthBeat and CQ Homeland Security, as well as with CQPolitics.com. During certain times of the year, interns may work with the team that publishes the biennial Politics in America, which includes information on each member of Congress. CQ also accepts interns for the online and multimedia teams, legislative tracking team, copy desk, and other departments, based on the skills of the applicant.

Summer interns typically work full-time, while interns during the Spring and Fall semesters typically work two to three full days a week. Many interns receive credit from their colleges and universities, depending on the rules of their institution.  We offer competitive salaries, a comprehensive benefits package that includes a 401(k) plan, extended vacation, health insurance, and bonus schemes that recognize and reward individual and team performance.

In addition to their duties, interns meet CQ staff members from various departments, including several “brown bag” lunches during the summer. Interns will also make at least one trip to Capitol Hill with one of CQ’s reporters, who will show them the ropes and help them navigate the Capitol complex.

Application Process:

Applicants for internships should submit a resume and may be asked to submit at least two writing samples to the hiring manager upon request. In 200 words or fewer, please tell us about an interesting experience or difficult decision you’ve faced while reporting. Use the notes section of this application.

Before obtaining an internship, qualifying candidates will be given an interview and a writing test.

Applicants for summer internships must apply by January 31, and decisions will be made by early- to mid-April. Spring applicants should apply by November 1 of the preceding year. Fall applicants should apply no later than July 31.

Email resume and requirements to: jobs@cqrollcall.com

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