How to apply for KIP Spring 2027 - Policy Intern - Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity

About Standtogether

FREOPP is a nonpartisan think tank that produces rigorous policy research and practical implementation strategies to expand opportunity for Americans below the national median income. What sets FREOPP apart is its commitment to bipartisan, liberty-increasing solutions across healthcare, welfare, housing, and education—making it a unique place for policy-minded individuals who want to see their ideas translated into real-world impact. Working here means contributing to durable reforms that prioritize individual agency and upward mobility.

About the role

As a Policy Intern, you'll directly support FREOPP's research on safety net reform, workforce development, child welfare, and housing—issues critical to expanding opportunity. You'll conduct literature reviews, analyze data, draft policy memos, and help develop implementation strategies that could shape bipartisan legislation. This internship is a rare chance to influence national policy debates while gaining hands-on experience in a leading think tank.

A typical day

A typical day might involve conducting a literature review on a safety net reform proposal, drafting a section of a policy brief, and attending a team meeting to discuss implementation strategies. You'll also collaborate with researchers on data analysis and may have the opportunity to contribute to op-eds or blog posts. Expect a mix of independent research and collaborative problem-solving, all aimed at advancing FREOPP's mission.

Who Standtogether is looking for

• Strong interest in safety net reform, workforce development, child welfare, or housing policy, demonstrated through coursework, research, or prior internships.
• Excellent research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into clear, actionable policy recommendations.
• Exceptional written communication skills, including experience drafting policy briefs, reports, or op-eds for diverse audiences.
• Self-starter who thrives in a remote, fast-paced environment and can manage multiple projects with minimal supervision.

Tips for this application

• Tailor your resume to highlight any experience with safety net programs, workforce development, child welfare, or housing policy—even if it's academic research or volunteer work.
• Include a writing sample that showcases your ability to analyze policy and propose practical solutions; ideally on a topic relevant to FREOPP's focus areas.
• Demonstrate familiarity with FREOPP's published research by referencing specific reports or articles in your cover letter and explaining how your skills align with their mission.
• Emphasize your ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote setting, as the internship is full-time and remote (US).
• Apply through Stand Together Fellowships and ensure your application reflects the values of diversity, honesty, and respect that the program prioritizes.

What to cover in your cover letter

["Your specific interest in FREOPP's approach to expanding opportunity through bipartisan, liberty-increasing policies—cite examples from their research.", 'How your background in policy analysis, research, or a related field prepares you to contribute to projects on safety net reform, workforce development, child welfare, or housing.', 'Concrete examples of your written and analytical work, such as a policy memo, research paper, or data analysis project, and the impact it had.', "Your ability to work effectively in a remote, full-time internship and your eagerness to learn from and support FREOPP's policy team."]

Research before applying

• Read FREOPP's recent publications on safety net reform, workforce development, child welfare, and housing to understand their policy positions and research style.
• Explore Stand Together Fellowships' website to learn about the program's structure, values, and expectations for interns.
• Familiarize yourself with key debates in one or two of FREOPP's focus areas, such as welfare reform or housing policy, by reading recent think tank reports or news articles.
• Research FREOPP's leadership and scholars to understand their backgrounds and areas of expertise, which can help you tailor your application.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Your understanding of FREOPP's mission and how you would contribute to their research on safety net reform, workforce development, child welfare, or housing.
• A time you conducted policy research and translated findings into a clear, actionable recommendation—walk through your process and the outcome.
• How you would approach analyzing a current policy issue in one of FREOPP's focus areas, such as the effectiveness of a specific workforce development program.
• Your experience with data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Stata, R) and how you've used them to support research or policy work.
• How you prioritize tasks and manage deadlines in a remote work environment, especially when juggling multiple research projects.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention FREOPP's specific focus areas or mission—this role requires a genuine interest in their work.
• Lacking a writing sample or providing one that is unrelated to policy; FREOPP values clear, persuasive policy writing.
• Failing to demonstrate independent work ethic or remote work readiness, as the internship is fully remote and full-time.