Application Guide

How to Apply for Internship - Call for Applications

at Center for a New American Security (CNAS)

🏢 About Center for a New American Security (CNAS)

The Center for a New American Security (CNAS) is a premier bipartisan national security think tank that uniquely bridges academic research with practical policy formation. Working at CNAS offers direct exposure to high-level national security debates and the opportunity to contribute to influential publications and events that shape U.S. policy.

About This Role

This six-month Joseph S. Nye Jr. Internship involves full-time work (40 hrs/week) supporting either research, communications, or development teams at CNAS. Interns actively contribute to the Center's core mission by assisting with research projects, publications, and events, gaining hands-on experience in national security policy formation.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve conducting research for an upcoming CNAS report, attending policy briefings or events, assisting with publication preparation, and collaborating with CNAS staff on national security projects. Interns work closely with experienced professionals while contributing to meaningful policy work that influences national security discussions.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Center for a New American Security (CNAS) Is Looking For

  • Currently pursuing or recently completed a graduate degree in international relations, political science, security studies, or related field with strong academic credentials
  • Demonstrated interest in national security policy through coursework, previous internships, or research projects
  • Located in or able to relocate to Washington, DC area (mandatory requirement since September 2021)
  • Strong writing and analytical skills with ability to contribute to policy publications and research

📝 Tips for Applying to Center for a New American Security (CNAS)

1

Specify which track you're applying for (research, communications, or development) in your application materials and tailor your examples accordingly

2

Highlight any DC-area connections or relocation plans since this is a strict requirement mentioned in the job description

3

Reference specific CNAS publications, research programs, or recent events to demonstrate genuine engagement with their work

4

Emphasize your availability for the full six-month commitment and full-time schedule

5

Connect your background to Joseph S. Nye's legacy by mentioning relevant concepts like soft power or your approach to mentorship in national security

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your specific interest in one of the three tracks (research, communications, or development) and why that aligns with your career goals', "How your academic or professional background prepares you to contribute to CNAS's policy-focused work", 'Your connection to or plans for being in the Washington, DC area during the internship period', "What aspects of CNAS's recent research or publications particularly interest you and why"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Recent CNAS publications in your area of interest (research, communications, or development)
  • → CNAS's current research programs and initiatives to understand their policy priorities
  • → Joseph S. Nye's contributions to national security theory and how CNAS honors his legacy
  • → CNAS's role in recent policy debates and their influence on Washington decision-making

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Your understanding of current national security challenges and how CNAS contributes to these debates
2 Specific examples of research, writing, or analysis you've conducted related to national security policy
3 How you would approach contributing to a CNAS research project or publication
4 Your familiarity with Joseph S. Nye's work and how it influences your thinking about national security
5 Your ability to work in a bipartisan think tank environment and engage with diverse perspectives
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying without specifying which track (research, communications, or development) you're interested in
  • Failing to address the Washington, DC location requirement or demonstrating lack of relocation plans
  • Submitting generic application materials that don't reference CNAS's specific work or publications

📅 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 a New American Security (CNAS)!

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