The Asia Foundation is a nonprofit international development organization committed to improving lives across a dynamic and developing Asia. Informed by six decades of experience and deep local expertise, our work across the region addresses five overarching goals—strengthen governance, empower women, expand economic opportunity, increase environmental resilience, and promote regional cooperation.
Headquartered in San Francisco, The Asia Foundation works through a network of offices in 18 Asian countries and in Washington, DC. Working with public and private partners, the Foundation receives funding from a diverse group of bilateral and multilateral development agencies, foundations, corporations, and individuals. In 2017, we provided $83.7 million in direct program support and distributed textbooks and other educational materials valued at $8.7 million.
The Asia Foundation’s mission is to improve lives, expand opportunities, and help societies flourish across a dynamic and developing Asia. We work with innovative leaders and communities to build effective institutions and advance path-breaking reforms. Together with our partners, we are committed to Asia’s continued development as a peaceful, just, and thriving region of the world.
Project:
Gain a greater understanding of the administrative and operational procedures of a non-profit international development organization,
Broaden knowledge of Asia and key U.S. policy issues related to the region, and
Increase familiarity with key players in the Washington-area diplomatic, policymaking and civil society community by attending and reporting on an array of events at local peer organizations and on Capitol Hill.
What you will do:
Meet with Washington-based staff to understand the role and operations of the office, the importance of the Congressional Appropriation, the role of technical themes at The Asia Foundation, and financial policies and procedures.
Assist with office administrative tasks and with organizing and executing public events under the guidance of staff, editing reports, and assisting with research projects.
Learn basic office operations including use of office equipment, telephones, and record keeping.
Conduct research on country-specific developments and thematic issues of interest to the Foundation.
Learn about a variety of issues and countries which are new to oneself in order to understand the scope and breadth of issues being addressed.
Attend and draft reports on a variety of external events in Washington, D.C.
Eligibility and Skills Required:
The internship is open to continuing undergraduate students. Students from any department are welcome to apply. Applicants must be in good academic standing with a GPA of 3.3 or higher.
Additional Requirements:
Full time graduate or undergraduate student in Asian Studies, political science, international development, international relations, or other relevant field of study.
Previous work experience related to Asia is beneficial but not required.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
Self-motivated and pays strong attention to detail.
Language Requirement:
None.
Location:
The internship is located in Washington, D.C.
Stipend:
FSI is committed to providing its opportunities to students regardless of financial constraints. FSI’s Global Policy Interns are provided with a stipend to cover travel and living expenses during the summer. These stipends do not exceed $6,400 per person. Students must submit a budget with their estimated costs along with their application. If you have financial constraints that you think may prevent you from participating in this program, please contact FSI academic program manager Patrick Laboon directly.
Application:
Applicants will be asked to submit:
Application Form
Name of faculty reference (letter of recommendation not required)