PROGRAMMING
NextGen Jewish Leaders Program

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SWC’s Government Advocacy Internship Program provides engaged and ambitious college students with opportunities to gain real-world experience in government offices, consulates, and NGOs involved in advocacy and public policy work. The internship is open to students currently enrolled in undergraduate or graduate-level programs.

The 2026 internships will be located in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and West Palm Beach.

Application Checklist

In addition to your general contact information, you will be asked to respond to the following items.

  • Describe why you would like to be a Simon Wiesenthal Center Government Advocacy Intern.
  • Describe the areas of public policy that interest you most, and why.
  • To what extent has your academic and work experience helped prepare you for this assignment?
  • List any academic honors you have received and/or extracurricular activities in which you are involved
  • Describe your long-term professional goals

 You will also be asked to upload:

  • Resume
  • College Transcript
  • Two Letters of recommendation (one from a college professor)

The application will likely take approximately 15-30 minutes to complete. 

Program Description

  • Interns will receive hands-on work experience in government offices and agencies, advocacy groups, and international organizations.
  • They will be paired with mentors who help shape policy, gaining unparalleled insight into the inner workings of government, diplomacy, and NGOs.
  • Interns will participate in monthly workshops with elected officials, government staff, and Jewish communal leaders to develop their advocacy skills.
  • Upon successful completion of the program’s minimum requirements, interns will receive a $1,500 stipend.
  • They will then join the NextGen network of alumni and mentors.

Program Requirements

  1. The Government Advocacy Internship Program will span a period of eight weeks over the summer.
  2. Participants will be required to commit at least four days a week during regular business hours to their internship, as well as weekly dinner/evening workshop sessions.
  3. The program will include an orientation led by Simon Wiesenthal Center staff.

Program Eligibility

  • The program is open to any college or graduate-level student. Applicants should demonstrate an interest in public policy and a commitment to the future of Jewish communal advocacy.