Application Guide

How to Apply for Intern

at The Aspen Institute

🏢 About The Aspen Institute

The Aspen Institute is a unique nonpartisan forum that drives global climate solutions through dialogue, leadership, and action. Unlike traditional think tanks, it convenes diverse leaders across sectors to develop practical solutions, making it an ideal place for those passionate about climate policy to see ideas translate into real-world impact.

About This Role

This internship supports the Aspen Economic Strategy Group (AESG) by assisting with event preparation, administrative tasks, and economic policy research. It's impactful because you'll directly contribute to high-level dialogues that shape climate and economic policy, gaining exposure to influential leaders and cutting-edge research.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve researching economic policy topics in the morning, formatting documents for an upcoming AESG event, and drafting correspondence or digital content in the afternoon. You'll collaborate with program staff on administrative tasks while contributing to high-impact climate and policy discussions.

🎯 Who The Aspen Institute Is Looking For

  • A current student or recent graduate with prior professional experience, ideally in policy, research, or event coordination
  • Someone with exceptional organizational skills, able to manage multiple tasks like guest lists and document formatting with precision
  • A strong writer who can draft correspondence and digital content, with proven communication abilities
  • A candidate familiar with US economic policy and eager to stay updated on recent economic research, particularly as it relates to climate solutions

📝 Tips for Applying to The Aspen Institute

1

Highlight any experience with event logistics or administrative support, as the role involves preparing materials for AESG events

2

Demonstrate your knowledge of US economic policy by mentioning specific topics or recent research in your application

3

Tailor your resume to show strong writing skills, such as through samples of correspondence, reports, or digital content

4

Emphasize your ability to handle detail-oriented tasks like proofreading and document formatting, which are core responsibilities

5

Show enthusiasm for the Aspen Institute's mission by referencing their climate solutions work or specific AESG initiatives

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your interest in economic policy and climate solutions, linking it to the Aspen Institute's mission", 'Specific examples of your organizational skills, such as managing event materials or administrative tasks', 'Your writing and communication abilities, with brief mentions of relevant experience like drafting correspondence', 'How your background aligns with supporting high-level policy dialogues, as seen in AESG events']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Explore the Aspen Economic Strategy Group (AESG) and its recent publications or events
  • Review the Aspen Institute's climate initiatives, such as their Energy and Environment Program
  • Look into recent AESG participants or speakers to understand the network you'll support
  • Familiarize yourself with current US economic policy debates, especially those tied to climate

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you managed multiple administrative tasks with tight deadlines
2 How do you stay informed about recent US economic policy developments?
3 What interests you about the Aspen Institute's approach to climate solutions?
4 Walk through your process for proofreading and formatting a document
5 How would you research an economic policy topic requested by the policy director?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application without mentioning the Aspen Institute or AESG specifically
  • Overlooking the administrative aspects of the role, like document formatting or event support
  • Failing to demonstrate knowledge of economic policy or climate issues in your materials

📅 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 The Aspen Institute!