A 501(c)(3) nonpartisan forum · Affiliated with the World Affairs Councils of America

Internships – San Diego World Affairs Council

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

Campus Liaison Intern

SDWAC is currently looking for interns to serve as Campus Liaisons for our Young Professionals program. Learn more below.

About the Program

Young Professionals Program

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.

Through intellectually stimulating events and meaningful connections, YP members gain the knowledge, confidence, and community to make a global impact — locally and beyond.

Internship Role

Campus Liaison

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 — amplifying SDWAC's mission, programs, and events by fostering relationships with student organizations, academic departments, and campus leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact between SDWAC and your university.
Promote SDWAC events, programs, and opportunities through campus networks, social media, newsletters, and student organizations.
Assist in planning, coordinating, and hosting SDWAC-related events on campus (panels, lectures, workshops, or networking events).
Collaborate with SDWAC staff and fellow interns on outreach strategies and engagement initiatives.
Help identify opportunities for partnerships with faculty, departments, and student groups.

Qualifications

Currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate student at a San Diego-area college or university.
Strong interest in international affairs, public policy, global issues, or related fields.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Self-motivated, organized, and comfortable working independently.
Ability to engage peers and build relationships across campus.
Experience with event planning, student leadership, or campus organizations is a plus.

What You'll Gain

Hands-on experience with a respected national nonprofit organization focused on global affairs.
Opportunities to expand your network with policy professionals, diplomats, and community leaders.
Leadership experience representing a citywide organization on your campus.
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.”

Shivangi Gupta, UCSD School of Global
Policy & Strategy, Class of 2023

"As an international affairs graduate, my experience with the SDWAC (San Diego World Affairs Council) has been enriching. Engaging in the council's activities allows me to actively contribute to the global discourse. Conducting outreach efforts enables me to connect with a diverse range of individuals and build a network of like-minded professionals. Working on pilot programs allows me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, honing my problem-solving skills in real-time. The ongoing speaker series and events organized by SDWAC are invaluable, exposing me to diverse perspectives from distinguished individuals in the field, and further broadening my worldview. The series offers a unique opportunity to learn from accomplished leaders, diplomats, and experts, providing a comprehensive education that goes beyond traditional classroom learning. Overall, my time with SDWAC has been instrumental in shaping my perspective on global affairs and is equipping me with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in the field."

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."

Additional Internship Opportunities

General Requirements

All interns are expected to have strong communication skills, excellent time management, and organization. Candidates should have an interest in world affairs, good written and oral communication skills, and demonstrate a professional and responsible work attitude. Interns must attend Council events and help with set-up, guest registration, and take-down.

Event & Special Projects Intern

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 required.

Community Outreach & Development Intern

Establish relationships with local academic institutions to facilitate greater connections with students and SDWAC outreach.
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 or knowledge in community or academic outreach.

Communications & Marketing Intern

Design marketing materials for SDWAC events.
Manage social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Generate and distribute e-blasts and newsletters to members.
Develop press briefs to promote events to media outlets.

Recommended experience: Coursework or experience in journalism, English, or writing; proficiency in social media platforms.

Web Development & Media Intern

Modify, update, and develop the 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, and other visual resources.

Recommended experience: Knowledge of HTML/coding; proficiency in Photoshop or design is a plus.

Applying for school credit? Please specify what is needed for the fulfillment of your internship requirement and provide your institution's contact information. If possible, attach the evaluation form.