Fast Facts
Join Strada Education Foundation as a Policy & Communication Intern this summer and contribute to advancing education and employment opportunities while gaining hands-on experience in a national nonprofit organization.
Responsibilities: Support the policy team's efforts by developing content, managing projects, and preparing technical assistance; assist the communications team with project management and editorial support on key publications.
Skills: Strong communication skills, detail-oriented, proficiency with Google Suite and Microsoft Office, ability to work independently and collaboratively, and a passion for equitable opportunities in education and employment.
Qualifications: Currently enrolled in or accepted into a postsecondary education program; at least one year out of high school; demonstrated learning ability; and strong problem-solving skills.
Location: Independently work from Indianapolis, IN or Washington, DC with in-office requirements on Tuesdays and one additional department-specific day each week.
Compensation: $22 - $25 / Hourly
Are you currently enrolled in a postsecondary education program (an education or training program after completing a diploma or GED)? Are you eager to make a meaningful impact in communities across the nation and gain practical experience at the same time? Join Strada Education Foundation's summer internship program and be part of a national philanthropic organization focused on better connecting education after high school to meaningful employment and economic opportunity in the U.S.
The Policy, Advocacy, and Communications (PAC) Department is hiring two positions this summer. A Policy intern and a Communications intern.
Policy Intern:
This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain high-impact experience and exposure across key areas that advance Strada’s mission. As a Policy Intern, you will support the policy team’s efforts to advance the organization’s recently released policy agenda at both the federal and state levels. You will also help the policy team prepare to provide technical assistance to policymakers through the organization’s advocacy team. Responsibilities include content development (e.g., writing background memos, landscape analysis, policy memos, and actively participating in meetings with grantees and potential grantees) and project management (e.g., meeting agenda development, taking meeting notes, and PowerPoint development).
Communications Intern:
As a Communications Intern, you will support the Strategic Communications team’s efforts to advance Strada’s core messages through a variety of channels, including earned and digital/social media. More specifically, you will engage in planning, project management, and editorial support related to the production of the 2026 State Opportunity Index, which is Strada’s flagship publication. Additionally, you will participate in team strategy meetings and assist with the maintenance of Strada’s editorial and external engagement calendars.
About Strada
Strada Education Foundation is a national nonprofit social impact organization that supports programs, policies, and organizations that strengthen connections between education and employment in the U.S., with a special focus on helping those who have faced the greatest challenges securing economic opportunity through postsecondary education or training (PSET). Our strategic plan focuses on five focus areas: clear outcomes, quality coaching, affordable PSET, work-based learning, and employer alignment.
Strada works with partners in education and training, nonprofit organizations, industry, startups, and public policy. We leverage strategic philanthropy, investments, research, communications, advocacy, and collaborating organizations as tools to help advance equitable pathways to opportunity. Strada aspires to be a nonprofit partner of choice working with education and training providers and leaders, policymakers, and peer organizations. Strada offers a dynamic, collaborative, and inspiring professional environment that provides learning and professional development opportunities, both within the organization and with external partners.
Internship Overview:
Duration: May 19, 2026 - August 14, 2026
Hours: Minimum of 30 hours per week (seasonal employee)
Pay: $22.75/hour undergrad; $25/hour grad
Location: (Hybrid) Indianapolis, IN or Washington, DC (in-office on Tuesdays + department-specific days and other days as needed for special events)
Travel: Up to 15% for Professional Development
The Strada summer internship program offers a paid, 13-week, hands-on learning experience for students who are at least one year post-high school. This opportunity is ideal for those seeking to gain experience in social impact while engaging in meaningful functional work.
As part of this cohort-based program, interns will gain exposure to nonprofit operations, engage with leadership, and build a network that spans both nonprofit and for-profit sectors. Interns will work on impactful projects, participate in skill-building activities, and attend professional development events such as speaker series and informational interviews. The internship program will run from May 19, 2026, to August 14, 2026, and interns must be based in Central Indiana or the Washington D.C. area and available for the entire duration of the internship. Interns will work out of the office at least two days per week (Tuesdays and one other department-specific day). There will be times when additional days may be required for professional development workshops and special guests. There may also be an opportunity to travel to conferences and workshops throughout the program.
What You’ll Gain:
- Exposure to Nonprofit, Postsecondary Education, and Workforce Development Sectors: Participate in leadership speaker series, lunch-and-learns, and industry interviews.
- High-Impact Work Experiences: Gain functional skills through rotational work and real-world projects with colleagues across diverse teams.
- Coaching, Mentorship, and Professional Networking: Receive quality mentorship and coaching from supervisors and executives. Build your professional network through community events and leadership exposure.
Qualifications:
- At least one year out of high school and currently enrolled in or accepted into a postsecondary education or training program (college, apprenticeship, boot camp, etc.).
- Demonstrated ability to learn quickly and contribute in a collaborative environment.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Excellent attention to detail, time management, and problem-solving abilities.
- Proficiency with Google Suite and Microsoft Office; familiarity with Zoom and Slack is a plus.
- Self-motivated, able to work independently while being open to feedback.
- Passionate about promoting equitable opportunities in education and employment.
- Positive attitude with a strong willingness to collaborate, contribute, and enhance the experience of the entire internship cohort.
To apply for the Strada Education Foundation Summer Internship Program, please:
- Attach Your Resume
- Submit a Cover Letter detailing your interest in the internship.
- Submit a Loom Video (instructions attached)
Next Steps: Your Application Submission
We believe in a hands-on approach, and your application process starts with getting to know the team and the task at hand!
Watch the Introduction: Get a personal introduction and overview of the role's vision from the Hiring Manager in this short video: Introduction Video
Review the Instructions: Follow the step-by-step guidance provided via Loom to complete the required application task: Link to Loom Instructions
We are excited to review your materials and potentially welcome you to the team!
