Summer Internships

Position: 2026 Spring and Summer Internships
The World Affairs Council has over 70-year history of advancing global understanding and engagement throughout greater Seattle. We envision a community that is connected, actively engaged, and inspired to create change in the world. The Council has long dedicated itself to fostering dialogue and debate about critical global issues. This is achieved through public events, Global Classroom programming for K-12 educators and students, and diplomacy initiatives that engage international delegations with our community.

Our platform connects civic, academic, corporate, and individual members around world issues. We are part of a vibrant global city; our goal is to ensure that Seattle is visible, engaged, and globally aware.

Volunteer interns are a critical part of the World Affairs Council and will contribute to its mission while gaining hands-on work experience. The Council is seeking committed and goal-oriented volunteer interns to work in programming, development, and communications. Interns will each be assigned to one program or department and will have the opportunity to complete projects that may be used in a work portfolio or for academic credit.

General information:

• This announcement is for interns with start dates in Spring and Summer 2026. Please specify your availability in your application.
• All positions are open until filled. Early applicants will be given priority, though applicants may not be contacted until later in the season.
• This is an unpaid internship.

Requirements:

• A minimum three month (twelve week) commitment of 12-20 hours each week on a regular schedule. Applications for six or nine month commitments are strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated interest in international relations.
• Fluent written and conversational English.
• Practical experience with Microsoft Office.
• Excellent time management, organization, and attention to detail.
• No education requirement - the World Affairs Council does not require applicants to be current students. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and education levels.

Interns will be placed on one of the following teams:

Global Leadership Exchange:
Research, Writing & Program Planning

The Global Leadership Exchange (GLX) team coordinates professional programs for State Department-sponsored international delegates visiting the Puget Sound region. Interns support the GLX team by researching, writing, and editing proposals and itineraries for upcoming projects. Benefits include joining international visitors to virtual meetings with local professionals, networking, learning about organizations across all fields in the greater Seattle area, experience in the nonprofit sector, and developing professional skills in international education and exchange.

Tasks include:

• Accompanying international visitors to meetings with local professional resources.
• Researching local resources and drafting proposals for upcoming programs.
• Compiling and editing virtual visitor itineraries.
• Preparing and assembling digital welcome packets and programs.
• Producing marketing and communication materials.
• Writing and uploading reports about meetings with international visitors.
• Maintaining the GLX database using Salesforce.
• Supporting the World Affairs Council with daily operations.
• Contributing to the World Affairs Council blog.

Community Events:
Event Logistics & Marketing

Community Events interns assist in coordinating all aspects of World Affairs Council events. Interns support the community events team in researching and planning stages, as well as day-of logistics for all World Affairs Council public events, both in-person and virtual. Events include panel discussions, town-hall meetings, discussion groups, and networking receptions.

Tasks include:

• Coordinating event logistics: developing outreach strategies, booking venues (for in-person events), and overseeing details of event production, event registration, and speaker correspondence.
• Researching and proposing ideas for new programs.
• Attending virtual Council events and facilitating event implementation.
• Promoting and publicizing World Affairs Council programs: researching new marketing techniques and helping with the placement of advertisements…