Position Overview:
The Editorial Department manages the online output from MEI’s think tank, the Policy Center, including articles, reports, books, and, in conjunction with the Communications Department, multimedia content like podcasts and videos.
MEI is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic intern to join the Policy Center’s Editorial Department for a part-time internship for Fall 2024. This in-person internship offers valuable hands-on experience and professional development opportunities in foreign policy programming and publishing. Interns are a key part of the Policy Center’s Editorial team and work directly with the Managing Editor and Editor-in-Chief on all stages of the digital publishing process, from brainstorming topic ideas and reviewing pitches, to fact-checking and editing content, through final publication.
Key Responsibilities:
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Assist in the day-to-day production of content for MEI’s Policy Center.
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Edit a wide variety of written products, including blog posts, articles, policy memos, and
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reports.
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Carry out occasional short- and long-term research.
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Participate in Editorial and inter-departmental meetings; help conceptualize and implement programming and publications.
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Edit and help write event write-ups and summaries for distribution.
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Additional tasks as required.
Qualifications:
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Currently enrolled or recent graduate (within 6 months) from a Bachelor’s or Master’s program in international relations, political science, Middle East studies, history, English, writing, communications, or similar. Strong and demonstrated interest in the Middle East.
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Exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects to deadline while maintaining high editorial standards.
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Proven experience proofreading and editing scholarly or policy publications. Experience with editing publications written by non-native-English speakers a plus.
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Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
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Knowledge of relevant regional languages (especially Arabic) and AP style is a plus.
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Proficiency in Google Suite and Microsoft Office. Familiarity with Adobe Suite a plus.
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Physical location in the Washington, DC, area during the internship period, and the ability to work from MEI’s Dupont Circle office several times a week. Requests for fully remote or virtual internships will not be considered.
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Enthusiasm for learning and developing new skills.
Educational Objectives:
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Gain practical experience in the editorial and publications process at a foreign policy and research institution.
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Learn how a think tank helps inform and shape US foreign policy.
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Develop skills in high-level content planning and strategic communications.
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Enhance research skills through fact-checking, drafting of memos, and assisting with event summaries.
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Develop and sharpen analytical skills through an institutionalized editorial review process.
Professional Development:
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Hands-on experience in non-profit event implementation and programming.
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Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals.
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Opportunity to connect and network with Middle East-focused scholars.
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Potential for academic credit, if applicable.
How to Apply:
Please submit your resume, cover letter, and writing sample to mczekaj@mei.edu with your last name and “Fall 2024 Internship” in the subject line. In your cover letter, please specify why you are interested in this internship and how it aligns with your career goals.
Note: Please be aware that this is an unpaid internship with no promise or expectation of compensation, express or implied. Furthermore, participation in this internship does not entitle interns to a paid job after the internship.