The FREE Initiative is a national collaborative outreach and educational resourcing effort led by AEI scholar Ian Rowe. The FREE Initiative disseminates insights about the crucial roles of family, religion, education, and entrepreneurship in developing the rising generation of young Americans. FREE is also building and catalyzing a growing network of exemplary leaders from across the nation who use their spheres of influence to revitalize community life and instill a sense of agency in the next generation.

The FREE Initiative is committed to building partnerships among policymakers, cultural leaders, and local influencers to help young Americans—particularly emerging leaders representing ethnic minorities—move up the economic ladder and invest in the social institutions that help all people flourish. The initiative’s priorities include launching a tool kit for educators who are interested in teaching young people the FREE Framework, piloting lessons for high school students on youth agency, strengthening partnerships with external individuals and organizations, and building new audiences for Mr. Rowe and the FREE Initiative around the country through various outreach activities, including events. The intern will assist in furthering the mission of building agency in students and receive mentorship from the FREE Initiative manager and team.

The intern is expected to:

• Provide research support for the FREE Initiative;
• Assist in creating promotional content;
• Provide administrative support with communication, events, and network of contacts;
• Manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously;
• Have an interest in helping students develop agency over their futures so that they can lead successful lives and rise socioeconomically.

The ideal candidate for this position will be a rising college sophomore or above with excellent writing and communication skills who is proactive, organized, and willing to learn and accept feedback. We are also seeking a candidate who is entrepreneurial, driven, and self-directed. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets is beneficial.

The start dates for the summer program are May 27 and June 3. While the AEI Internship Program and all related programming will take place in-person in Washington, DC this summer, virtual interns may be accepted on a case by case basis. Please include your preferred start date and note your in-person/virtual preference in your cover letter.  Please note that a cover letter and writing sample are both required, in order for your application to be considered complete.

About AEI Internships

AEI internships offer a unique opportunity for undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates to gain experience in research, writing, business, and communications at one of the nation’s leading think tanks. Competitive candidates will generally have a 3.4 GPA or higher from a top-ranking college or university. The AEI internship program runs 12 weeks. Please see the internship program home page for updates about the program.