Media Relations Intern

To be considered for this role, you must apply directly through our online application. 

About the Role

This paid, in-person internship in Washington, DC (25–40 hours per week over 12 weeks) joins Cato’s Communications/Media Relations team.

You’ll handle inbound media requests; draft and refine press pitches and releases; monitor the news for timely opportunities; and create clear daily briefings that explain Cato scholarship for reporters and editors—advancing individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace.

Responsibilities

• Participate in daily media department meetings.
• Create daily summaries of Cato citations and media appearances.
• Monitor newsworthy topics for Cato scholars to comment on.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated interest in media, public relations, and US public policy; alignment with Cato’s mission.
• Strong writing for press pitches, releases, and briefings (AP style a plus).
• Strong attention to detail and thorough fact-checking under tight deadlines.
• Proven ability to meet deadlines and juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced news environment.
• Sound news judgment and media-monitoring habits; identify timely angles for scholars.
• Professional, clear communication and discretion with reporters, producers, and internal stakeholders.

The Cato Internship Program

Cato’s paid internships are available for undergraduates, recent graduates, graduate students, law students, and early-career professionals who are strongly committed to individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace—principles that together form libertarianism, also known as “classical liberalism,” “market liberalism,” or, to many of our international friends, simply “liberalism.” 

All Cato interns participate in the same intensive seminar series, which covers a wide range of history, philosophy, policy, and professional development topics. Interns also assist with events and occasionally support Cato staff with other daily tasks. 

Interns receive competitive pay. Part-time roles are adjusted accordingly and require a minimum of 25 hours per week. Program participants must be able to attend in person in Washington, DC.

For more information about the internship program and experience, we encourage you to explore our website. If you have any questions, email studentprograms@cato.org.