If you’re interested in exploring a career in government or politics after graduation and are still looking for that summer internship for summer 2026, consider interning with local city government. Many city offices like New York City Mayor’s Office have internship opportunities available for undergraduate and graduate students.
Though these opportunities may prefer or require city or state residency, some summer opportunities are open to any interested students with no such restrictions. This means if you are looking for opportunities away from your permanent address, it may be worth looking into a nearby city administration for internship roles.
You may even be able to get involved in more than just local politics. For example, the New York City mayoral office internship program offers internships in many units, including the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs. Opportunities that are adjacent to city politics utilizing different skillsets are typically available too. In New York City that includes positions with the Mayoral Office Director of Communications or the Center for Innovation Through Data Intelligence (CIDI).
As you are searching for that Summer 2026 opportunity, look into applicable city and mayoral units and consider applying! Many of these positions are not typically posted on larger aggregate sites like Handshake, so you need to be putting in the effort to find these opportunities through city specific channels. Some example internships that area now accepting applications to help get you started on your search:
- NYC Office of the Mayor Internship Program (State/City residency not required)
- City of Boston Summer Internship Program (Requires Boston residency)
- San Francisco Mayor’s Office Internship Program (Residency requirement not listed, Opens March 1)
