Who Should Apply for the New Leaders Internship

CPL’s New Leaders Internship Program brings passionate young people of color, women and LGBT youth to Washington DC for paid, on-the-job experience in a top progressive organization, leadership training, coaching, networking and community building.

The New Leaders Program is very selective. In 2008, 1,450 people started applications. 30% of those who completed applications received phone interviews and 65 incredible CPL New Leaders from across the country were accepted into the program.

Last year's class represented 19 states, 33 colleges, and a wide range of backgrounds. The 2008 class of interns was 90% people of color, 30% LGBT, and over 40% first-generation Americans and first-generation college students. We also had a diverse class in terms of socio-economic status, religion, and educational experience. The interns ranged in age from 18 to 28, with an average age of approximately 21.

CPL's New Leaders Program is looking for young people who have demonstrated their passion for progressive change through activism, community and campus organizing, student government, student group activities, volunteer, starting or leading groups or organizations, writing for print or on-line publications, and mentoring.

Are you a person who...

• Is working to make your campus or community a better place?
• Is a leader in your class or campus groups?
• Has volunteer or worked for a political campaign?
• Follows current events and news?
• Is committed to social justice issues?
• Has led or been involved with efforts to raise awareness about issues on campus or in your community?
• Can't affort to send a summer working for free?

Are you looking for...

• The opportunity to work with leading progressive organizations, including the Center for American Progress, Choise USA, Sierra Club, United States Student Association or the Victory Fund?
• Training, coaching and support to become a stronger, more effective leader?
• Not just an interesting job for the summer, but also a structured program that will develop you as a leader and connect you to 50 other amazing, diverse young leaders from across the country?

If so, then apply for the CPL New Leaders Internship!

Each CPL New Leaders is matched with a paid internship in a leading progressive organization in Washington, D.C., including policy and research work, advocacy, organizing, media relations, and online communications. CPL New Leaders also participate in orientation and closing workshops, weekly trainings, coaching, and a variety of networking events, conferences, and other opportunities.

CPL's New Leaders Program is very selective. However, unlike many other internship programs, our analysis of a candidate's fit for CPL's New Leaders Program does not rely solely on GPA or other qualifications. We look for a class that is diverse in every respect - from race, gender, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status to religious affiliation, geography, immigrant experiences, and educational background.

If you know someone who matches the characteristics above, you can nominate them today for CPL's New Leaders program or apply today!

Have questions? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.