The Smithsonian Institution NMAAHC Internship Application

APPLICATION PROCESS

Eligibility

Students who are currently enrolled in an academic program, as well as individuals who have recently completed studies.

A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or its equivalent is generally expected (with withdrawals and incompletes explained).
Ability to work a minimum of twenty hours per week. These internships are unpaid.
Funding is available on a competitive basis from the Office of Fellowships and Internships.

Academic Credit

The Smithsonian Institution welcomes the opportunity to work cooperatively with schools seeking to grant academic credit for internships. Applicants are encouraged to initiate arrangements for credit with their college or university. The Smithsonian does not grant academic credit.

Internship Sessions

Internships occur during the summer, fall, and spring from 10 to 15 weeks, beginning June 1, September 15, and January 15. Start dates and duration are flexible and arranged in coordination with the supervisor.

Application Deadlines

Summer Internships: March 15

Fall Internships: July 15

Spring Internships: October 15

Applicants interested in combining an internship at the NMAAHC with a paid intern through the Minority Internship Program, Native American Internship Program, or James E. Webb Internship for Minority Undergraduate Juniors, Seniors, and Graduate Students in Business and Public Administration must submit an application by the deadline for these programs. For more information, see the Smithsonian Office of Fellowships and Internships.

Duration

Part-time, 3-6 month intern projects will take place throughout the year. Specific start and end dates and hours will be determined by the intern supervisor and the intern. This is an unpaid internship.

Location

Internships will take place at the National Museum of African American History and Culture office at Capital Gallery, 600 Maryland Avenue SW, accessible by Metro Yellow/Green & Blue/Orange/Silver Lines.

Background Investigation

An internship appointment is conditional, subject to your successful completion of a pre-appointment background investigation for a non-critical, sensitive position.

How to Apply

Please apply using the Smithsonian online application system. Paper applications will not be considered.

Please be aware that complete applications must include the following:

Internship program application form
Academic transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable)
Personal essay (use this to tell us how the internship will advance your academic/career goals)
Two letters of reference

Essential Tips for the Online Application

Do NOT submit your application until all necessary components are uploaded (i.e., transcripts, personal essay, resume). Once submitted you cannot upload or change anything within the application.

An unofficial or official transcript can be uploaded by first scanning the document and saving it as a .pdf or .jpeg. Please do not mail the transcript separately.

Make sure that you click the “Send Email” button. This triggers the system to email your references with instructions for uploading the reference letter. Please advise your references of this in advance.