The USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future (CPF), in partnership with the USC Wrigley Institute for Environment and Sustainability, offers select high school students a prestigious summer internship program that is held entirely online. This competitive program gives high school students (no graduating seniors; sorry), who have a minimum 3.5 GPA, the opportunity to have a collegiate internship experience by:
- Closely watching one of our annual signature events, the “Climate Forward Conference,”
- Writing a 5-10 page collegiate-level summary of the main points of the conference panel,
- Writing a 5-10 page essay with personal perspectives on the pros and cons of the conference panelist viewpoints (at least 10 properly cited outside sources needed), and
- Attending the online introduction with CPF staff, the mid-internship check in with CPF staff, and the final wrap up with CPF and Wrigley staff, and finally,
- Submitting a photo, testimonial about the experience, and parental approval to have both published on the CPF website (if under 18)
Only when all these elements are successfully completed, will the student be granted the title of “Summer Research Intern for the USC Center for the Political Future and the USC Wrigley Institute for Environment and Sustainability” and recognized as such on the CPF website.
The application portal is NOW CLOSED. We normally have far more applicants than spots available.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a high school student. Graduating seniors do not qualify.
- Minimum GPA 3.5
- Must be available June 1-August 1
CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR THE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM [Closed]
The application will reopen in April 2025.
More detailed information about the internship can be found on the 2024 High School Intern Program Syllabus.
If you have any questions, please email unruhins@usc.edu.
2024 High School Summer Internship Program Cohort
The 2024 High School Summer Internship Program cohort shared their experiences below. Read each student’s summary paper on CPF’s annual “Climate Forward Conference” by clicking on the student’s name.
- Prisha Bhat (Senior, Plano East Senior High School): “I really enjoyed the internship at the USC Center for the Political Future! It was very valuable in allowing me to interact with other high schoolers with similar interests, while also gaining more experience with the impact of public policy on climate action. I learned a lot about expert perspectives on climate action and its challenges.”
- Jonathan Chen (Junior, Gretchen Whitney High School): “The CPF internship was an incredible experience that transformed my writing and ability to interpret intricate dialogue regarding policy issues. The supportive staff at CPF provided detailed feedback throughout the internship, which helped me improve my writing immensely. The staff’s mentorship highlighted avenues for beginning a career in politics. The opportunity to listen to a diverse group of panelists reinforced the value of collaboration in tackling the climate crisis and throughout public policy discussions. The analysis portion of the internship honed my skills in research and applying data to policy decisions. I am grateful to CPF for running this program and allowing me to experience it firsthand.”
- Claire Chin (Junior, Monte Vista High School): “CPF’s rewarding internship program significantly improved my analytical research writing and encouraged me to become a more environmentally aware citizen. I synthesized the ideas of notable climate figures, expanding my knowledge beyond what’s typically available to me. I was introduced to CPF’s annual Climate Forward Conference, an event that presented me with evidence-based perspectives on a diluted yet crucial issue. This experience was an opportunity to refine my ability to think open-mindedly and write concisely, preparing me for future research. I am grateful to CPF for this opportunity and look forward to continuing my research at the intersection of politics, the environment, and the economy.”
- Anish Chowdhury (Senior, Palos Verdes High School): “I gained deeper insights into the intersections of political science and climate change. Analyzing the conference and the required tasks of writing a summary and drawing a definitive conclusion allowed me to improve my analytical writing skills and understand the importance of public policy’s role in politics. I have a better grasp of how political internships work and the importance of summarizing political discourse. This internship empowered me to write a political paper for the first time, teaching me critical thinking and writing skills, which I will employ in my future endeavors.”
- Jack Clawson (Senior, Pine Creek High School): “My CPF internship offered a glimpse into the complex world of climate change and public policy. Working alongside supervisors at CPF allowed me to explore a vast network of ideas and leaders, all working in pursuit of a brighter future. This internship was a formative experience, and I will be utilizing my new knowledge of research and advocacy in all of my future endeavors. I’m now more committed than ever to fighting for climate justice and making an impact in my community.”
- Krish Comar (Senior, The Bolles School): “My CPF internship was a transformative experience. I’ve gained a deep understanding of policy analysis and environmental advocacy, honing my skills in research and analysis. Collaborating with passionate experts at CPF has broadened my perspective on sustainability and political strategy. I particularly enjoyed engaging in hands-on projects that address real-world environmental issues. This internship has not only enriched my knowledge but also fueled my commitment to making a tangible impact on our planet’s future.”
- Andrew Cui (Senior, Ridge High School): “This internship has been truly eye-opening. The program pushed me to analyze a variety of perspectives on the climate response, cultivating my interest in modern politics in the process. I learned how to properly organize, write, and proofread collegiate-level essays. The CPF staff was very helpful, providing tips on resume and cover letter writing that will undoubtedly support me far beyond my time as an intern. I cannot state how thankful I am to the CPF staff for providing such an amazing opportunity!”
- Dorothy Cui (Senior, Lincoln High School): “The internship experience at CPF was rigorous yet enlightening. I learned about climate change as a multifaceted issue that requires creative thinking and bipartisan collaboration to find solutions. I found the essay writing process valuable because I was able to practice my research and critical thinking skills. I’m now better equipped with the tools necessary to think critically and act consciously about climate change.”
- Gavin Herbers (Senior, West High School): “I learned about the intricacies of climate policy and addressing climate change through the U.S. government. My research enabled me to form a new perspective and reflect deeply on possible climate change solutions. The staff helped me in my analysis and summary every step of the way, which strengthened my writing and analytical thinking. This program fueled my passion for intensely researching new topics and advocating for addressing this global issue.”
- Elisa Kim (Junior, Emerson High School): “My CPF internship was an enriching experience, deepening my knowledge on a range of political issues and the complexities surrounding them. I’m extremely grateful for this incomparable opportunity, as it has equipped me to be a stronger advocate, ready to engage in meaningful discussions, contribute to positive change, and be a more confident writer. The kindness from CPF, along with the inspiring group of determined students, made this experience unforgettable and has fueled my passion to make a difference. I cannot thank Steph Domond and the CPF staff enough for this once in a lifetime opportunity!”
- Gracie Kim (Junior, Santa Susana High School): “I gained a deep understanding of how climate change intersects with policy and the actions America has taken to address it through legislation. By researching and writing collegiate-level papers on the complexities of the Invest in America Act introduced by the Biden-Harris Administration, I’ve learned about the multifaceted effects of climate change and the diverse impacts of this policy. This experience was fascinating and profoundly impacted me academically, sparking a deeper interest in environmental policy and its implications.”
- Hanah (Yoonseo) Kim (Junior, Fayston Preparatory of Suji): “My CPF internship exposed me to the deeper interconnections between climate change action and politics. This opportunity evolved my view of climate change, as I began understanding how to look at the climate issue through various lenses. CPF’s emphasis on seeking common ground between differing opinions to find various solutions helped me write in a bipartisan manner in my summarizing and analytical essays. I’m so grateful for the kind, hardworking, and trustworthy CPF staff in this professional setting; I will always look back fondly at my time at CPF.”
- Irene Kim (Senior, Denver School of the Arts): “This internship was an enriching experience, providing me with deep insights into environmental policy and sustainability. I honed my research skills by analyzing complex data and contributing to impactful projects. I loved engaging in interdisciplinary research that addresses real-world challenges, while deepening my understanding of environmental policy, sustainability, and political innovation.”
- Jayden Kim (Junior, South High School): “My CPF internship was an amazing experience! I learned so much about climate change and how important it is to find solutions for climate change, but specifically bipartisan solutions. Listening to experts and discussing different viewpoints widened my perspective on these issues and made me realize all the hard work and progress that goes on behind the scenes. The skills I gained in research and writing will definitely help me in the future. This internship made me more passionate about finding solutions to the climate crisis and more interested in how climate change is directly affected by politics and power.”
- Ankita Kumar (Junior, Wayzata High School): “The CPF internship gave me the opportunity to further educate myself about the politics of the climate crisis. It reinforced my passion for public policy and economics as I witnessed firsthand how interconnected these fields are in the context of environmental justice. The panelists’ conversations inspired me. Steph Domond was an amazing mentor; he supported me beyond the program by providing me with resume feedback. I’m so grateful for being challenged to think critically about the pressing issues affecting our world today and grow as a student, researcher, and advocate for change.”
- Alexis Lee (Senior, West Torrance High School): “This opportunity was incredibly enriching and educational. I delved deeply into the study of climate change, where I developed comprehensive summary and analysis papers. This process has significantly enhanced my research and writing skills, as well as my ability to synthesize complex information. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the multifaceted impacts of climate change and engaging with the latest discussions and policies in this critical field. The program provided me with valuable insights into the intersection of environmental issues and political processes, further fueling my passion for environmental advocacy and public policy.”
- Robinson Louie (Junior, Harvard-Westlake School): “The CPF internship helped me deepen my understanding of climate change and hone my critical writing skills. I gained more insight into existing climate initiatives and the roadblocks slowing their adoption. This internship introduced me to a network of mentors who shared their valuable experience working in all areas of politics.”
- Carolin Mitterberger (Junior, Oaks Christian School): “I gained a deeper understanding of the government’s current actions to combat global warming and how crucial these efforts are not for our planet and the American economy. Learning about the Biden Administration’s environmental agenda made me understand the importance of proactive and informed policymaking. I enjoyed listening to renowned professionals who have dedicated their lives to working on environmental issues. Their insights provided me with a unique, richer understanding of their fields, far beyond what I could have learned by simply searching online.”
- Anna Nazaryan (Freshman, Burbank High School): “This program was an amazing first step for me as a future climate advocate. Watching the conference was an amazing experience. It allowed me to find out about a great roster of experts that I want to continue following. I learned about the role of the 2024 election and politics overall in the battle against climate change. I had an amazing time in this program and I’m very grateful to have experienced it with amazing hosts and peers.”
- Joseph Or (Junior, Martin Luther King High School): “The CPF research internship was a transformative experience, deepening my understanding of U.S. environmental policy and the role the government, private sector, and nonprofits play in addressing climate change. I’m leaving this internship with a plethora of knowledge about landmark climate legislation (e.g., the Inflation Reduction Act) and the stakes of the election year. I feel prepared to actively participate in meaningful discussions about climate policy and I’m motivated to become more involved in voter engagement efforts to promote sustainability, conservation, and environmental justice on the 2024 ballot.”
- Evan Shin (Senior, Granada Hills Charter High School): “I want to extend my gratitude to CPF for this amazing opportunity. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience and learned so much about the intersections of environment and politics. I refined my writing skills as I had to independently conduct interdisciplinary research and author two quality papers. I broadened my perspective when it came to tackling the climate crisis, particularly on the importance of the private sector, as what I learned continuously challenged my beliefs about the solutions to global warming. The bipartisan perspective taken by the panelists inspired me to continue to initiate climate action in my local community through political action. This internship was an incredible start for my future in policy research.”
- Justin Sinderbrand (Senior, Westlake High School): “I had an incredible experience in this internship. This program allowed me to deepen my knowledge of the complexities of climate change by working alongside experts and other young advocates with aspirations similar to mine to gain insight into many different environmental strategies. This experience helped set a strong foundation for my future endeavors to impact global ecological issues. I will never forget this internship as a starting point in a life of environmental advocacy.”
- Noah Wilson (Senior, De La Salle High School): “The CPF internship significantly expanded my understanding of environmentalism and the intersection of politics with climate change. Analyzing the two panels from the conference transformed my knowledge of the world’s climate challenges and reinforced my belief in bipartisanship. This invaluable opportunity allowed me to explore my passion for public policy and prepared me to advocate more effectively for climate action. Working with Mr. Domond was particularly inspiring, his unique background in politics and key insights inspired me to start volunteering on a political campaign in my city. I hope to use the analysis, research, and writing skills I learned to succeed in the field of politics.”
- Fiona Wu (Junior, Claremont High School): “My favorite part of the internship was conducting research and learning from the conference. Doing an analysis piece on the election’s impact on the climate turnaround was a fascinating process but extremely bleak. It made me challenge philosophical ideas such as nihilism and “doomerism” in the climate, as well as research the environment’s disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. Despite the melancholy surrounding climate change, learning about this topic didn’t make me nihilistic but pushed me to try and find solutions.”
- Bella Zhao (Senior, Keystone Academy Beijing): “The CPF research internship allowed me to gain a comprehensive understanding of the politics of resolutions to climate change. I gained the soft skills that would equip me for future collegiate and professional studies and the knowledge of the crucial intersection between political decision-making and climate science. I also appreciate the helpful lectures on the basics of an internship and general advice on succeeding in the field of politics.”
Past Cohorts of the High School Summer Internship Program
Join CPF in honoring the past cohorts of the High School Summer Internship Program! Read what each student shared about their experience and check out their conference summary papers.