Institute of Politics

Overview of Organization: Founded in 1922, the Chicago Council on Global Affairs is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing knowledge and engagement in global affairs. Our in-depth analysis and expert-led public opinion research influence policy conversations and inform the insights we share with our growing community. Through open dialogue of diverse, fact-based perspectives, we empower more people to help shape our global future. As an independent, nonpartisan organization, the Council takes no institutional positions.

Internship Summary: This internship will primarily provide research support to the president and CEO of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs.

Responsibilities:

• Compile and edit research and writing
• Contribute to the daily administrative tasks that support the President’s research agenda
• Assist the Chief of Staff with projects across the organization, including programming, communications, and global leadership
• Other projects/tasks as assigned

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong research, editing, and writing skills
• Strong knowledge of international affairs
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills
• Consistent, conscientious attention to detail
• Ability to multi-task with quick turnaround times
• Experience in study related to China, security, energy, or the Global South preferred but not required

Eligibility:

• Undergraduate 3rd/4th years and Graduate students
• Domestic and International students

About the Supervisor: Valerie McMakin joined the Council in 2025 and is the Chief of Staff to the CEO & COO. Before joining the Council, McMakin was Chief of Staff for congressional relations at the United States Department of Agriculture, where she managed the Farm Bill legislative process and helped execute USDA priorities, including rural economic development, advancing equity, climate change, and building resilient supply chains. Before USDA, she served as a Legislative Assistant for Senator Jon Tester of Montana, providing policy support for commerce, trade, and agriculture. She holds a bachelor's degree in political science and ethics from Emory University.

Location/Modality/Commute: Our team is in the office on Mondays, Thursdays, and one additional day per week. Ideally, our intern would work in our office Mon/Thurs at a regular weekly cadence. We hope to have a candidate in-office for a minimum of 50% of the time. Our address is 130 E Randolph St, Ste 1650, Chicago IL 60601.

Start/End Date: Summer internships will take place during the period of June 8 - September 25, with specific dates to be determined by the employer partner and intern during the interview process.

Required Materials:

• Resume
• Cover Letter