Interning for Democracy

Before applying for summer funding, you must complete these requirements:

1. A resume review
2. Attend a qualifying Houston Program workshop
3. You must also complete one of the following:
   • Attend the Interning for Democracy Kick-Off Workshop [Date TBD in March]
   • Have a one-on-one appointment with Micah Owino

Additionally, you must:

• commit to participating in all program components, and
• accept an internship that is:
  • An unpaid or low-paying nonprofit organization or governmental agency (domestic or international)*
  • Takes place during the Amherst College summer break, from May 7, 2026, to September 1, 2026.
  • Offers at least 25 hours per week and a minimum of 150 total hours, with a maximum of 40 hours per week.
    • Examples:
    • 6-week internship x 25 weekly hours= 150 total work hours
    • 6-week internship x 40 weekly hours= 240 total work hours
  • Is hosted by an organization or company that can be verified
  • Has a designated supervisor who can answer the intern’s questions and provide regular performance feedback

*Students receiving a salary or other compensation from their internship host (including housing, transportation, and meals) may request partial stipends. The total employer compensation and the partial stipend cannot exceed the Interning for Democracy’s maximum award of $5,000.

Please book an appointment via Handshake with Micah Owino to learn more.

To be determined.

The application is open to eligible students who have attended an Interning for Democracy workshop or met with the Program Director for Careers in Social Impact, and have secured a Democracy-based internship.

All funding applications undergo an initial review to determine if both the applicant and the internship meet basic eligibility requirements. Applicants will be notified if their application needs clarification (a response is expected within 48 hours) or if it has been withdrawn due to ineligibility.

Eligible applications are reviewed by the program review committee according to specific criteria. The quality of the application, including short essay responses and the resume, is crucial. Applicants should ensure their applications are well-written, well-developed, and error-free.

Once a stipend request has been submitted, it may take up to three weeks to receive payment. Ensure direct deposit details are updated in Finexio; otherwise, payment will be sent as an e-check to your Amherst email address. You are required to complete a Summer Internship Reflection at the conclusion of your internship.