
The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) seeks an intern who will assist Senior Fellow Gary J. Schmitt and Senior Fellow Jonah Goldberg, among other scholars in AEI’s Social, Cultural, and Constitutional Studies department. Dr. Schmitt researches the American presidency, the U.S. Constitution and its principles, and American civic life. Mr. Goldberg conducts research on American conservatism while producing frequent political analysis on current events.
Responsibilities for this internship include reading and analyzing primary and secondary sources; conducting archival research; editing; supporting events; and providing administrative assistance as needed.
Ideal candidates will have a demonstrated interest in early American history, American intellectual history, and political theory; a background in history, political science, American studies, or a related field; strong research, writing, and editing abilities; intellectual curiosity; and a self-directed work ethic. Experience in archival research is a plus. Candidates who are able to participate in the program on an in-person basis for at least 20 hours a week are encouraged to apply.
About AEI Internships
AEI internships offer a unique opportunity for undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates to gain experience in research, writing, business, and communications at one of the nation’s leading think tanks.
Competitive candidates will generally have a GPA of 3.5 or higher from a top-ranking college or university. AEI’s internship program runs for 12 weeks and all related programming will take place in-person in Washington, DC. Please see the internship program home page for updates about the program.
The fall program dates are either Tuesday, September 8, to Friday, December 4 or Tuesday, September 15, to Friday, December 11.

Who we are:
The American Enterprise Institute is a public policy think tank dedicated to defending human dignity, expanding human potential, and building a freer and safer world. The work of our scholars and staff advances ideas rooted in our belief in democracy, free enterprise, American strength and global leadership, solidarity with those at the periphery of our society, and a pluralistic, entrepreneurial culture.
How we do it:
We are committed to making the intellectual, moral, and practical case for expanding freedom, increasing individual opportunity, and strengthening the free enterprise system in America and around the world. Our work explores ideas that further these goals, and AEI scholars take part in this pursuit with academic freedom. AEI operates independently of any political party and has no institutional positions. Our scholars’ conclusions are fueled by rigorous, data-driven research and broad-ranging evidence.
Our work:
Our scholars not only engage in research that focuses on today’s most critical challenges but also look ahead to ideas and issues that have yet to be widely recognized. AEI scholars pursue innovative, independent work across a wide array of subjects. From economics, education, health care, and poverty to foreign and defense studies, public opinion, politics, society, and culture, our experts drive the competition of ideas.