Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the New Leaders Fellowship and Internship program?

The New Leaders Internship Program is for college students and other young leaders interested in a 10 week-long paid summer internship and leadership development program in Washington DC.  The 2008 internship program runs from June 6-August 15. The New Leaders Fellowship Program is for recent graduates and young leaders seeking full-time work and runs from June-November 2008.  New Leaders Fellows are matched with a paid, full-time position in Washington DC, or in Colorado, Michigan, Pennsylvania or Ohio and also receive leadership and skills training, coaching, mentorship and networking opportunities.

What is the application deadline for my summer 2008 application?
The applications for the 2008 New Leaders Program are now closed.

How many New Leaders do you accept each summer?
We anticipate selecting 65 New Leaders this summer.

Is there a fee for your program?
No; there is never a cost to you to apply or participate in the New Leaders Program. Program participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from Washington, DC, and for housing and other living expenses during their internship.

I can't afford to spend my summer doing an internship. Can I?
All New Leaders will receive at least $3,750 during the ten-week program.

Can't I just apply for an internship directly?
Many of our partners regularly offer internships, and you are welcome to apply to them directly if you choose. Our goals are to help you find the right internship for you, as well as to offer you the training, leadership development, mentorship and networking opportunities you need to have the most rewarding experience possible. As a New Leader, you will also be part of a community of 65 other diverse, exciting young progressive leaders from across the country.

Does my acceptance into the New Leaders Program guarantee an internship with a particular organization?
We accept individuals who we believe will be a good fit for our program. In the end, the partner organizations providing the internship will make the final decision on which interns to hire. Given the number of opportunities available, it is unlikely that we will not find a match for you; however, CPL cannot guarantee you an internship.

What will I do as an intern?
The New Leaders Program is designed to help you find the most interesting and rewarding internship experience possible. Specific intern responsibilities vary according to the needs of our partner organizations; however, all include substantive work such as conducting research, coordinating events, managing databases, covering congressional hearings, fundraising, participating in direct service, and writing for newsletters or other publications. Interns should also expect some clerical duties such as filing, answering phones, or photocopying. In addition, all New Leaders are required to actively participate in the training, networking and mentoring opportunities that CPL organizes supplemental to their internship.

Can I receive college credit for the New Leaders Program?
That depends. Many interns receive academic credit for their summer experience, but each college/university and each of our partnering organizations have their own policies and procedures regarding granting credit. Since CPL itself does not award academic credit, the student is responsible for getting the proper approvals and documentation from his/her home institution to receive credit.

Is there an age requirement for the New Leaders Program?

Participants generally must have received their high school diploma or its equivalent by the start of the program in June 2008.