The University of Virginia’s Karsh Institute of Democracy is seeking an enthusiastic and creative Student Intern to join our communications team for the Spring 2026 semester. This position is ideal for a student interested in democracy and civic engagement, with a skill set that helps the Institute further engage with fellow UVA students.
The nonpartisan Karsh Institute brings people together to generate ideas and solutions that build a better democracy for all. Launched in 2021 as a natural extension of UVA’s founding mission to advance knowledge and prepare student leaders for self-government, the pan-university Institute serves as a hub for interdisciplinary scholarship, research, teaching, and vibrant public engagement.
Key Responsibilities:
Content Creation:
- Social Media: In coordination with the communications team, develop engaging content for the Institute’s social media platforms (Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube) and represent the Institute in front of the camera across these channels.
- Video Editing: Edit short-form videos and other multimedia content for digital campaigns and event promotion.
- Creative Contribution: Brainstorm and pitch new ideas for social media content and digital engagement strategies.
- Content Strategy: Assist in creating, scheduling, and executing weekly content calendars across multiple platforms as assigned, ensuring alignment with the Institute’s strategic goals.
- Scriptwriting: Draft and refine scripts for short-form, goal-oriented videos optimized for social engagement.
Marketing:
- Student Outreach: Assist with promoting events, programs, and initiatives to student audiences through social media, campus partnerships, and direct outreach.
- Event Support: Help distribute flyers, set up materials, and represent the Institute at outreach events across Grounds.
- Paid Media Support: Support planning, monitoring, and reporting for paid social, paid search, and programmatic ad campaigns, using either platform-native tools or DSPs (training available).
Admin:
- Project Management: Manage deliverables and meet assigned deadlines, demonstrating strong time-management and follow-through skills.
- Photo Library Maintenance: Organize, catalog, and maintain the institute’s photo library with accurate meta tagging and file management.
- Other Duties as Assigned: Provide general support to the communications team as needed.
Qualifications
Required:
- Current UVA student (undergraduate or graduate).
- Strong interest in civic engagement for young people across America.
- Familiarity with social media platforms and digital storytelling.
- Ability to balance multiple priorities and consistently meet project deadlines.
- Willingness to appear on camera and collaborate in the creation of social video content.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Self-motivated, reliable, and eager to contribute ideas in a collaborative environment.
Preferred:
- Knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud tools (e.g., After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator) is a plus.
- Experience with graphic design or motion design for digital platforms is a plus.
- Understanding of cross-channel messaging, content scheduling, and performance tracking.
- Basic experience with video editing for social media.
Benefits/Learning Opportunities:
- Gain hands-on experience with a leading organization in the democracy space.
- Build a professional digital portfolio of multimedia and social content.
- Network with professionals and thought leaders in a wide range of industries—government, media, law, technology, education.
- Contribute to meaningful work promoting democracy and civic participation for students and the wider public.
- Network with professionals and peers passionate about public service and civic engagement.
- Learn to plan, execute, and analyze multi-channel communications campaigns using both organic and paid strategies.
Please include a resume and cover letter with your application.
Position Compensation: $18.00 Hourly
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: Current UVA student. Work-study eligible students are encouraged to apply.
Experience: None
Licensure: None
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.