Kennedy Center Internships: Program Description

The Kennedy Center Internship Program is a holistic and rigorous professional development program designed to elevate the next generation of leaders in the arts, cultural, and non-profit fields. Kennedy Center Interns spend a significant amount of their time at the Kennedy Center in individual placements, gaining valuable work experience and technical skills in their chosen field. Additionally, Kennedy Center interns participate in the various components of the Kennedy Center Internship curriculum in order to increase leadership potential and fluency in the non-profit and cultural sectors.

This is a paid internship program ($15.00 per hour) based in Washington, D.C., but will be virtual for the Summer 2021 term.

The Kennedy Center Internships: Placement

Each intern works in a specific placement that aligns with their academic and professional interests, under the supervision of a supervisor or team of supervisors in that department. Interns and supervisors work together to create goals and objectives that align with the projects in each internship, and will guide the intern through their time at the Kennedy Center.

The Kennedy Center Internships: Curriculum

Through the program curriculum interns will:

• Participate in trainings with senior staff members on a variety of arts administration topics including interview skills, networking, resume and cover letter writing, and success in the workplace.
• Attend workshops hosted by directors and managers that provide insight into the many different departments at the Kennedy Center.
• Attend cross-departmental meetings to understand the workings of a matrix organization.
• Shadow staff members in multiple departments.

Are You Eligible for the Kennedy Center Internships?

Applicants must be a rising sophomore, junior, or senior enrolled in an accredited undergraduate degree program at the time the application is due. International applicants are encouraged to apply, however, the Kennedy Center does not sponsor visas, and thus applicants will be required to provide proof of visa at time of application.

Please direct any questions to mevarn@kennedy-center.org.