Careers
Internship Program
United Palestinian Appeal’s internship program is designed to provide interested students with a valuable and meaningful experience working on humanitarian and development issues relating to the Palestine people. The internship is intended to help students meet their academic and professional goals by allowing them to enhance their research and writing skills in a non-profit professional environment. The internship is non-paid; however, a modest stipend will be provided for transportation. Applications are accepted three times a year, as follows:
Internship |
Period |
Application Deadline |
Fall |
September–December |
August 1st |
Spring |
January–April |
December 1st |
Summer |
May–August |
April 1st |
The internship should be 8 to 10 weeks within the specified periods.
Description
Interns will have the opportunity to pursue research in UPA’s development sectors, namely health and welfare, education, community development and public information. In coordination with the internship coordinator interns will be assigned a research project that will explore new areas of need or continued focus. A successful project will help UPA assess its focus, effectiveness of its programs and the extent of its involvement in specific areas over time. Interns will also be involved with routine administrative work of the office.
By the end of the internship period, interns will have gained some experience in working with a development organization. They will also be expected to present their research to members of the staff and other experts in the field and receive some feedback. Interns are also highly encouraged to attend relevant lectures and other events in the DC area.
Summary of Intern Duties
- Conduct and present research to UPA
- Support the daily administrative functions as needed.
- Attend events relevant to Palestinian development in DC
Required Qualifications
- Commitment of at least 15 hours per week for at least 8 weeks.
- Strong research and writing skills
- A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 out of 4.0
- Completion of at least two years of college with a focus on relevant fields of study (e.g., political science, economics, international relations, Middle East studies, Arabic …etc)
- Demonstrated interest in the Middle East and/or Palestinian issues
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Reliability and punctuality
- Knowledge of Arabic is preferred but not required
Application
To apply please send the following to interncoordinator@helpupa.org with the subject line “Spring Internship", "Summer Internship" or "Fall Internship,” depending on your interest.
- Cover letter explaining which development sector you are most interested in and the dates and times when you would be available.
- Resume including two references.
- A letter of introduction or a recommendation from one of your professors.
- A short writing sample (two to five pages) on a relevant topic.


