About the role#
The Aspen Institute Program on Philanthropy and Social Innovation (PSI) offers the William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship three times per year. This fellowship introduces students to the challenges and opportunities within the social sector, including philanthropy, nonprofit organizations, and social enterprise. The role reports directly to PSI leadership and is open to both undergraduate and graduate students. This is a working fellowship rather than a program for independent research. Fellows may arrange to receive academic credit through their home institutions.
What you'll do#
You will provide support for PSI leadership initiatives, public programs, and convenings. Your daily work includes:
- Conducting research
- Providing writing support
- Handling logistical tasks
- Managing administrative duties
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment at an institution of higher education for the semester of application
- Proof of enrollment for the upcoming fall semester if applying for the summer term
- Legal authorization to work in the United States
- Demonstrated financial need
- Strong interest or experience in the social sector, philanthropy, or nonprofit organizations
- Excellent research and writing skills
- Preferred majors include Business Administration, Political Science, Sociology, Economics, or Public Health
Location & details#
- Location: Washington, DC or remote
- Term: Rolling
- Compensation: Paid position ($18.50 - $19.00 per hour for summer fellows)
- Schedule: Summer fellows work 15-20 hours per week
About The Aspen Institute
The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization based in Washington, District of Columbia. It was founded in 1949 and operates as a 501(c)(3) entity. The organization focuses on dialogue, leadership, and action to address challenges in the United States and abroad. It maintains a nonpartisan stance and employs between 201 and 500 people.
How to get in at The Aspen Institute
Securing an internship at The Aspen Institute requires a proactive approach, as roles often fill quickly. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first, as early applicants get seen before the pile grows. This timing is critical for competitive nonprofit positions. You can also use Intern Insider to surface the recruiters behind the company roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the position or a referral. Reaching out to a human contact rather than just submitting an application into a queue materially improves your response rates.



