VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

CRS accepts a limited number of volunteer interns each year. Although most interns are graduate students, exceptional undergraduate students are also welcome to apply. Volunteer interns assist professional CRS staff in performing research and reference in response to public policy-related issues and questions. Through this work, volunteers have an opportunity to participate in the legislative process and to develop valuable research skills in a public policy setting.

Nature of Appointment: CRS internships are highly competitive and offered on an as needed basis as determined by the divisions within CRS. Internship applications are accepted on an ongoing basis; there are no application deadlines. Internships can last from three months to one year. Hours are determined by the needs of individual divisions and the applicant.

The American Law Division accepts interns for the Fall and Spring academic terms and for the Summer. Internships are limited to current law school students who have completed at least one year of law school. Strong writing and analytical skills are critical. Initial offers for Spring and Summer internships are made by late Fall, those for Fall by late Spring.

Application Procedures: Please send your resume to Bernevia McCalip, CRS Volunteer Internship Coordinator, via fax at 202-707-2615 or email: bmccalip@crs.loc.gov. Please include a cover letter indicating your dates of availability and areas of interest or expertise.

For volunteer internships in the American Law Division send inquiries, resumes, writing samples to Larry M. Eig, Intern Coordinator and Head of the Business and Environmental Law Section, at leig@crs.loc.gov.

Benefits: Although CRS volunteer internships do not offer financial compensation, students may be able to earn college credit. Interested applicants should check with their college placement office/career center to learn more about how to receive credit for volunteer internships.

Last Update: September 16, 2004