Application Guide

How to Apply for 2026 Communications Internship

at Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT)

🏢 About Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT)

The Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT) is a leading nonprofit advocacy organization dedicated to promoting democratic values by shaping technology policy and architecture. What makes CDT unique is its focus on preserving an open, innovative internet while addressing critical issues like privacy, free expression, and equity in the digital age. Working here offers the chance to contribute directly to policy debates that shape the future of the internet.

About This Role

This Communications Internship involves supporting CDT's efforts to communicate complex tech policy issues to diverse audiences, including policymakers, media, and the public. You'll likely assist with drafting content, monitoring media coverage, and helping to amplify CDT's research on topics like net neutrality and privacy. This role is impactful because you'll help shape narratives that influence real-world policy decisions affecting digital rights.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with reviewing news and policy updates on internet governance, then attending a team meeting to discuss messaging for an upcoming report. You could spend time drafting social media posts to highlight CDT's research, assisting with a newsletter, or helping prepare materials for a virtual event. The role blends research, writing, and collaboration in a fast-paced policy environment.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT) Is Looking For

  • Demonstrates genuine passion for internet freedom, privacy policies, and net neutrality—not just technical skills
  • Can articulate complex policy issues in clear, accessible language for different audiences
  • Shows awareness of current debates in tech policy (e.g., AI regulation, platform accountability, encryption)
  • Has experience or interest in advocacy, communications, or public interest work, even through coursework or projects

📝 Tips for Applying to Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT)

1

Explicitly connect your interests to CDT's mission—mention specific projects or positions they've taken (e.g., their work on Section 230 or privacy legislation)

2

Highlight any experience with policy analysis, writing for public audiences, or advocacy campaigns, even if from student organizations

3

Tailor your resume to show how your skills align with communications in a policy context (e.g., social media for advocacy, summarizing research)

4

If you have a portfolio, include samples that demonstrate your ability to explain tech topics clearly

5

Note your availability for a remote internship and any familiarity with virtual collaboration tools common in nonprofits

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Explain why CDT's mission resonates with you, citing a specific issue they work on (e.g., 'I was inspired by your stance on data privacy laws')", 'Describe how your background prepares you to communicate about tech policy—mention relevant coursework, writing, or volunteer work', "Show you understand the role's impact by suggesting how you could contribute (e.g., 'I could help draft social media content to explain net neutrality')", "Express enthusiasm for learning from CDT's experts and contributing to their advocacy efforts"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review CDT's recent policy papers, blog posts, or press releases to understand their current priorities
  • → Explore their stance on key issues like net neutrality, privacy legislation (e.g., ADPPA), and AI accountability
  • → Look into their team structure and leadership to see how communications fits into their advocacy work
  • → Check their social media presence (Twitter, LinkedIn) to gauge their tone and engagement strategies

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you explain a complex tech policy issue like encryption to a general audience?
2 What recent CDT publication or position caught your attention, and why?
3 How do you stay informed about developments in internet governance or digital rights?
4 Describe a time you had to communicate a nuanced idea to different stakeholders.
5 How would you approach promoting a CDT report on social media to engage policymakers?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application that doesn't mention CDT's specific work or mission
  • Focusing only on technical skills without showing passion for policy or advocacy
  • Failing to demonstrate an understanding of the communications role in a nonprofit context (e.g., assuming it's only about marketing)

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT)!

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