Policy Communications Intern

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin.

AARP's Policy, Research and International Affairs leads the development and communication of AARP's public policies and, research and insights on the issues that matter to people 50-plus.

Are you a graduate student passionate about using communications to amplify policy, research, and thought leadership - in the U.S. and globally? AARP Policy, Research and International (PRI) is seeking an intern with strong communications and writing skills to support and build a variety of communications activities - internal and external, digital and social, and creating video and written content - and who wants to learn more about applying those skills to policy solutions, research insights, and changing the global conversation about aging. You will work with a team of talented communications professionals and interact with policy and research thought leaders across the organization. This paid internship has an anticipated start date of Fall 2023, with an option to continue for additional semesters.

• Provide social media support, creating compelling content to amplify external releases, events, and other opportunities, creating event social media toolkits, working with other social media team members with supervision, and creating sample tweets to promote content
• Support the creation of video content, including working with the Outreach Director to identify stock photos, conduct video research, coordinate studio and field shoots, develop run of shows, manage spreadsheet metrics, and displays an overall curiosity of how effective storytelling and public policy drives social change
• Support the development and implementation of impactful virtual and in-person events
• Draft internal communications content (newsletters, emails, SharePoint content) key to helping PRI effectively communicate with its teams and across AARP
• Support AARP's Chief Public Policy Officer's communications, including preparation for speaking engagements, developing PPTs, social content, and briefing materials
• Special projects as assigned

• Prospective intern must be currently enrolled in a degree program at an accredited college or university and be a graduate student or post-doctorate student
• AARP also considers non-traditional interns who are looking to re-enter the workforce or change careers. This may include those who have previously graduated college and are now enrolled in a continuing education program
• The ideal candidate will be highly organized, understand pressing deadlines, have excellent written and verbal communications skills, and enjoy working in a collaborative, fast-paced environment
• Those majoring in communications, public relations, or journalism are encouraged to apply. We also will consider graduate students in public policy, economics, and other related disciplines who are excited about learning how to apply smart communications to increase impact
• Submission of writing samples (school paper articles and clippings preferred) may be required
• Skills include Microsoft applications and Adobe; design skills are a plus

Additional Requirements

• Regular and reliable job attendance
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships
• Independent judgement in evaluation options to make sound decisions
• In office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively surrounded by moderate noise

Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA)

AARP observes Mondays and Fridays as telecommuting workdays, except for essential functions. Remote work and telecommuting can only be done within the United States and its territories.

Compensation and Benefits

The hourly range is $18 for undergraduates, $21 for graduate students, and $28 for Ph.D. candidates. Internships are non-exempt positions and are not eligible for employee benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.