About the role#
The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression offers a 10-week summer internship for law students. You will work directly on advocacy and policy projects that address free speech and academic freedom. This is a paid, full-time position based on-site in either Philadelphia or Washington, D.C.
What you'll do#
Interns are placed in one of our non-litigation advocacy departments. You will contribute to the following areas:
- Campus Rights Advocacy: Investigate free speech violations on college campuses, conduct legal research, and draft public-facing commentary.
- Public Advocacy: Research threats to free expression, draft advocacy materials, and assist with public commentary.
- Policy Reform: Research higher education policy, draft policy analyses for administrators, and advance reforms for student and faculty expression.
- Legislative & Policy: Monitor legislative developments, draft internal bill analyses, and conduct legal research on public policy.
You will also assist with drafting memos, identifying new advocacy targets, and contributing to our newsdesk. Throughout the summer, you will participate in seminars with our leadership and experts in civil liberties.
What you'll need#
- Standing as a rising 2L or 3L law student.
- Strong academic credentials.
- Demonstrated interest in civil liberties and public-interest law.
- Ability to work collaboratively and focus on details.
- Commitment to defending freedom of speech, expression, and thought.
Location & details#
- Term: Summer 2027 (June 1, 2027 to August 6, 2027).
- Locations: Philadelphia, PA or Washington, D.C.
- Modality: On-site.
- Compensation: $8,000 stipend.
About Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression
The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression is a nonprofit organization based in Philadelphia. Founded in 1999, the group focuses on the defense of free speech and free thought. It operates with a staff of 174 employees. The organization specializes in constitutional law and higher education issues.
How to get in at Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression
Securing an internship at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression requires a proactive approach to the application process. Because early applicants often receive more attention before the candidate pool grows, Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role is published so you can apply among the first. This timing provides a distinct advantage when competing for limited spots. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the recruiters behind these roles directly. Intern Insider surfaces the specific contacts responsible for hiring at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, allowing you to ask relevant questions or request a referral to help your application stand out.
