In This Issue

• Applications are now open for Summer 2026 JMC Field Experience (Internship) Scholarships

• Internships and job opportunities

• Internships Spotlight: Cohen Zimmerman

Editor’s Note: This is the last Internships & Job Opportunities newsletter of the 2025-26 academic year! It will return to your inboxes in the Fall 2026 Semester. The final Events & Opportunities newsletter will send on Monday, April 27.

Inclusion of any internship opportunity listed here does not constitute MSU’s/JMC's endorsement or support of any candidate, party or ballot measure. 

Summer 2026 Field Experience (Internship) Scholarships

Scholarship applications are now open to JMC students enrolled in MC 400 and completing internships in the Summer 2026 Semester: 

• Students do not need to have secured the internship at the time of application, but must be enrolled in MC 400 (or approved equivalent) and have their internship confirmed before receiving the award. 

• Applications must be supported with a Faculty Recommendation from a JMC faculty member.

• Recipients are expected to complete a Letter of Acknowledgment to the scholarship donor.

Learn more and submit your application by May 29 via Qualtrics.

Internship & Job Opportunities

Correction: In last week’s newsletter, the Abdnour Weiker executive assistant position listed below was incorrectly listed as an internship. It is a full-time, paid position:

Abdnour Weiker, LLP Executive Assistant
This full-time Executive Assistant (35–40 hours per week) will support attorneys in a student rights-focused law practice. This role involves calendaring and scheduling, client and court communications, file management, travel coordination and general administrative support. The position is remote but requires candidates to be located in MI, OH or PA and able to travel for occasional in-person tasks. The salary for this opportunity is $20–$25 per hour with benefits. Please submit a resume and cover letter to Liz Abdnour at liz@education-rights.com with “Executive Assistant position” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Candidates will only be contacted if selected for an interview. 

Teach For America 2026 Fall Ignite Internship 
Teach For America offers paid, purpose-driven opportunities for college students and recent graduates to lead and serve in schools and communities. The Fall Ignite program is a part-time, remote tutoring opportunity open to all college students, where participants support K–12 students during the school day while building professional skills with training and guidance from experienced educators. Apply and learn more via Teach for America by April 29. 

Air Force Institute of Technology: Center for Directed Energy Summer Internship Program 
Participate in applied research projects supporting national defense and advanced technology development in atmospheric and optical systems. Interns gain hands-on experience working alongside federal researchers while contributing to real-world STEM research in engineering, physics, chemistry and related fields. Apply by April 30 via AFIT Application.

Institute for College Access & Success Fellowships

• Student Advocacy Fellowship: This one-year program is a paid opportunity for students in Michigan to learn and practice policy research, analysis and advocacy skills. Students will receive training in relevant skills, complete a research project and publication, participate in meetings with legislators, receive support towards their career and postsecondary goals with success coaching, and receive a stipend. Apply by May 1 via TICAS.

• Leaders of Color Fellowship: This two-year program is an opportunity for practitioners and leaders of color in Michigan to learn and practice policy research, analysis and advocacy skills. Participants will receive training in relevant skills, complete a research project and publication, participate in meetings with legislators, manage a mini-grant opportunity, and attend a national conference. Apply by May 1 via TICAS.

Student Mental Health Ambassador Program 
Join MSU Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) as a Student Mental Health Ambassador and support inclusive, student-led mental health programming on campus. Participants will engage in outreach events, receive training on topics like communication and suicide prevention, and explore career pathways in mental health. This volunteer opportunity includes monthly meetings and trainings, requiring no more than 30 hours per week for peer counselors. Apply by May 1. Learn more via CAPS Qualtrics Form.

GIFFORDS Courage Fellowship 
The GIFFORDS Fellowship is a program for young people interested in gun violence prevention advocacy. Fellows participate in training with national leaders, build skills in organizing and advocacy, and create a community engagement project while networking with other young activists. The program also includes in-person and virtual sessions, mentorship and a fully funded opportunity to lobby at their state capitol. Apply by May 10. Learn more and apply via GIFFORDS Fellowship. 

GSCC 2026-27 Student Internship 
The Gender and Sexuality Campus Center is looking for students interested in gaining hands-on experience supporting LGBTQIA2S+ students and allies at MSU. Candidates can bring their own ideas for programs and initiatives to the center. This opportunity is semester or year-long and open to any individual regardless of degree program. Interested candidates should contact gscc@msu.edu to discuss internship possibilities. 

Summer & Fall 2026 Election Administration Internship 
Gain hands-on experience in election administration by participating in a full election cycle in Bloomfield Township. Responsibilities include voter registration, absentee ballot processing, election worker coordination and Election Day operations, while building knowledge of election laws and systems. This role requires 30–40 hours per week, with increased hours as the election approaches. Submit resume and cover letter to elections@bloomfieldtwpmi.gov. Learn more via Bloomfield Township.

New Jersey Courts Paid Internship Program 
The New Jersey Courts Paid Internship Program offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the court system while supporting administrative and case-related operations. Interns assist with clerical, research, and customer service tasks including document preparation, data entry, and court support activities while working alongside judiciary staff. This opportunity is open to students enrolled in an accredited college or university with at least 30 completed credit hours. Learn more via Government Jobs.

Van Buren County Democratic Party Internships 
The Van Buren County Democratic Party offers flexible, experience-building internships for students interested in politics, communication, organizing and community engagement. These primarily remote roles are open to applicants regardless of location and include opportunities across campaigns, communications, fundraising, membership, events, data, and more. Applicants may apply for multiple positions using a single form submission. Learn more via Van Buren County.

Jocelyn Benson for Governor Campaign Internship 
Jocelyn Benson is running for Governor of Michigan and looking to build a hardworking team of interns. This internship is available across four campaign departments: Communications, Digital, Finance and Political. These positions offer hands-on experience on a Michigan statewide campaign, with exposure to media relations, content creation, political fundraising and coalition building. This part-time opportunity will take place in the Metro Detroit area and includes a salary of $1,000/month during the months of May/June through August/September.  Applications are rolling until all positions are filled. Selected candidates will be contacted for interviews. If interested, please submit your resume and cover letter to maggie@jocelynbenson.com with subject line: Communication Internship Application: Last Name. 

TurnUp Youth Activism Remote Internship 
Fully remote, unpaid opportunity for students interested in civic engagement and social justice. Participants work 5 to 30 flexible hours per week on teams with peers across the U.S., contributing to initiatives like voter engagement, advocacy and grassroots activism while building skills in communication, leadership and collaboration. The program offers flexible start dates, opportunities for course credit or community service hours, and valuable experience to strengthen resumes and networks. This opportunity is open to MSU students, with applications accepted on a rolling basis. Learn more and apply via Google Form.

Summer Internship Opportunities with AHCA/NCAL 
The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) is offering paid summer internships for students interested in healthcare policy, technology and the senior living sector. Interns will gain hands-on experience and insight into the organization’s work supporting long-term care providers nationwide. The eight-week internships begin after Memorial Day and pay $20/hour. Available internship opportunities include: 

• Government Relations Intern: Support policy research, advocacy initiatives and communications related to federal legislation impacting long-term care. Apply via AHCA/NCAL Website 

• Information Technology Intern: Assist with data analysis and system improvements to strengthen internal data quality. Apply via AHCA/NCAL Website 

• National Center for Assisted Living Intern: Conduct research and support programs related to assisted living policy and industry initiatives. Apply via AHCA/NCAL Website

Internships Spotlight: Cohen Zimmerman

Cohen is a sophomore majoring in Social Relations and Policy and Public Affairs Secondary Education. Learn about Cohen’s internship below!

“From July to August, I served as a Government and Insurance Affairs Intern at the Michigan Dental Association in Okemos. I supported the executive team in navigating the intersection of healthcare policy and legislative advocacy. Working closely with Vice President Bill Sullivan, I conducted daily research on evolving employment and labor statistics and state-level policy shifts in fluoride, ensuring our team has the verified data necessary to advocate effectively. I was responsible for synthesizing complex findings into concise memos that inform leadership strategy and departmental goals. This role has provided me with a valuable hands-on look at how professional associations influence the legislative process and has significantly sharpened my analytical and professional communication skills. I am grateful for the mentorship and trust of the MDA leadership; their guidance and experience have helped me in life and my studies at JMC!”

Learn more about JMC’s field experience requirement on the JMC website. Students interested in planning their internship can connect with JMC Field Experience Coordinator Lauren Michalak (schedule an appointment with her via student.msu.edu).

Have a suggestion or submission for this newsletter? Contact Jane Deacon (locket20@msu.edu).