INTERNSHIPS Interns play a very integral role here at SDWAC and we would not be successful without their support. As an intern you are given a free one year membership to the organization. You will obtain many opportunities to meet and work with influential people in world affairs first-hand. Interns will also receive mentoring and gain valuable insight into the day-to-day operations of non-profit organizations, public relations and event coordination. Another benefit is the opportunity to network with professionals with experience in international fields including humanitarian work, diplomacy, policy research, academia, and international business. |
OPEN OPPORTUNITY!
SDWAC is currently looking for interns to serve as Campus Liasons for our Young Professionals program! Learn more below:
The Young Professionals Program of the San Diego World Affairs Council empowers globally-minded individuals in their 20s and 30s to engage with international issues through dynamic programming, community connection, and leadership development. We foster inclusive dialogue, cultural exchange, and professional growth to inspire a new generation of changemakers in San Diego and beyond.
The program aims to deepen understanding of global issues through engaging events, while fostering a diverse and connected network of globally-minded individuals. We empower emerging leaders by providing opportunities for personal and professional growth, strengthening engagement with San Diego’s international community, and ensuring inclusivity and accessibility across all our initiatives.
The Young Professionals Program offers a unique platform for emerging leaders to explore international affairs, expand their professional network, and take an active role in shaping San Diego’s global identity. Through intellectually stimulating events and meaningful connections, YP members gain the knowledge, confidence, and community to make a global impact—locally and beyond.
Campus Liaison
The San Diego World Affairs Council (SDWAC) is seeking motivated and engaged Campus Liaison Interns to help connect the next generation of global leaders, policy thinkers, and change-makers across the San Diego region. This internship offers a unique opportunity for students passionate about international affairs, diplomacy, public policy, and civic engagement to gain hands-on experience while expanding SDWAC’s presence on local college and university campuses.
As a Campus Liaison Intern, you will serve as a key bridge between SDWAC and your university community. You will help amplify SDWAC’s mission, programs, and events by fostering relationships with student organizations, academic departments, and campus leadership. Interns will play an active role in promoting global dialogue, supporting program development, and encouraging student participation in SDWAC initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
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Serve as the primary point of contact between SDWAC and your university
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Promote SDWAC events, programs, and opportunities through campus networks, social media, newsletters, and student organizations.
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Assist in planning, coordinating, and hosting SDWAC-related events on campus (panels, lectures, workshops, or networking events).
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Collaborate with SDWAC staff and fellow interns on outreach strategies and engagement initiatives.
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Help identify opportunities for partnerships with faculty, departments, and student groups
Qualifications:
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Currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate student at a San Diego-area college or university.
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Strong interest in international affairs, public policy, global issues, or related fields.
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
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Self-motivated, organized, and comfortable working independently.
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Ability to engage peers and build relationships across campus.
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Experience with event planning, student leadership, or campus organizations is a plus.
What You’ll Gain:
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Hands-on experience with a respected national nonprofit organization focused on global affairs.
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Opportunities to expand your network with policy professionals, diplomats, and community leaders.
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Leadership experience representing a citywide organization on your campus.
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Resume-building experience in outreach, communications, and program support.
Time Commitment:
This internship is part-time and flexible, designed to accommodate academic schedules. Hours and duration can be adjusted based on availability and academic requirements.
Daniela Bautista Vanegas, USD Student "My internship at SDWAC was very fulfilling, I got to explore and develop skills related to international relations, business, and communication. The experience was enhanced by a fantastic team and provided me with valuable opportunities for professional growth and networking.”
Denisse Medina, CSUSM & Yonsei Alumn “My experience living in the U.K. initially ignited my affinity for developing a greater understanding of the world we live in. My undergraduate studies in Global Business Management further led me to fulfill a one year foreign residency requirement studying abroad in South Korea, where I hope to pursue my graduate studies in International Relations & Cooperation in the future. Working with SDWAC has given me the opportunity to work with a group of individuals who are passionate about making an impact on the world as well as enabled me to continue to foster a deep appreciation for the importance of becoming a global citizen in today’s increasingly globalized world.” |
Sofia Pedras, SDSU Student "My experience as an intern at SDWAC allows me to grow professionally and develop the skills necessary to a career in global politics. Preparing for and attending events coordinated by SDWAC has shown me the value of differing perspectives. Handling outreach opens a network of connections and I’ve had the opportunity to meet a variety of professionals in the political field. SDWAC offers countless opportunities that prepare me for real world experiences, and continuously builds problem solving and communication skills." |
Requirements
All interns are expected to have strong communication skills, excellent time management, and organization. Candidates should have an interest in world affairs, have good written and oral communications skills and demonstrate a professional and responsible work attitude. Interns must attend Council events and help with set-up, guest registration, and take-down.
Intern Committees
Intern responsibilities have been broken up into various committees. We have provided a list of these committees below as well as some of your potential responsibilities and expected skillset. All interns are expected to work together to optimize the organization’s efficiency.
Event and Special Projects Committee
- Work to help plan, execute, and advertise for the San Diego Academic World Quest competition.
- Assist with the creation, development, and execution of events.
- Remain in communication with speakers and act as a point of contact for their questions and concerns.
Recommended experience: Strong social skills and etiquette is required.
Community Outreach and Development Committee
- Establish relationships with local academic institutions to facilitate greater connections with students and SDWAC outreach through academic programs and groups.
- Work with the events committee to promote Academic World Quest.
- Assist in event promotion and work to establish a SDWAC presence at various community events.
- Aid in projects and assignments related to Corporate Sponsorship.
Recommended experience: Interest/knowledge in community or academic outreach.
Communications and Marketing Committee
- Design marketing materials for SDWAC events.
- Manage various media accounts; Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
- Generate and distribute e-blasts and newsletters to members.
- Develop briefs for media outlets (Making sure we get out our events to media outlets)
Recommended experience: Coursework or experience in journalism, English and writing. Proficiency in various social media outlets.
Web Development and Media Committee
- Modify, update, and develop organization website
- Manage the Council’s photography collection by archiving and editing photographs.
- Provide technical support for the team when necessary.
- Design and create graphics, flyers or various visual resources.
Recommended experience: Knowledge in HTML/Coding. Proficiency in Photoshop or design is a plus.
To become a part of the SDWAC team or learn more about internship opportunities, please send your resume, a cover letter, and a writing sample as an attachment to sdwac@sdwac.org. Please include the name of the committee you are applying for in the subject line. All internships are unpaid. Internship applications are accepted year-round on a rolling basis. |
*Please Note: If applying for school credit, be sure to specify what is needed for the fulfillment of your internship requirement and provide the contact information of your institution. If at all possible, attach the evaluation form. |