Internship Program
A real-world learning experience for future leaders with an emphasis on the importance of Tribal Sovereignty
Dear Prospective Intern,
First, thank you for your interest. The Navajo Nation Washington Office (NNWO) works as an extension of the Navajo Nation Office of the President and Vice President. NNWO represents the Navajo people by working with the White House, Congress, and federal agencies to develop federal laws, policies, executive orders, and practices that reinforce the federal trust responsibility, respect tribal sovereignty, and achieve the priorities of the Navajo Nation.
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Our Internship provides students with a transformative opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Native American governance. Interns will gain valuable insights into the intricate government-to-government relationship between the Navajo Nation and the United States by actively contributing to initiatives that bolster Navajo Nation’s sovereign rights. Ultimately, the NNWO Internship empowers students to become advocates for positive change in Native American communities.
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The internship will span a total of nine weeks. It is scheduled to begin June 1st and end on August 2nd. The Navajo Nation gives preference to eligible and qualified applicants in accordance with the Navajo preference in Employment Act and Veterans preference.
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Ahéhee', Thank You,
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Justin Ahasteen
Executive Director
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Learning Objectives
01
TRIBAL AFFAIRS AND SOVEREIGNTY
Coordinate with NNWO Staff to track current and emerging issues, trends, and legislative changes in tribal affairs and tribal sovereignty
02
REAL WORLD APPLICATION
Apply knowledge from course and skills such as analytical thinking, project and time management to real-world issues and projects
03
BUILDING CONFIDENCE
Identify and improve upon self-identified areas requiring personal, professional, and leadership growth
04
TRIBAL GOVERNMENT EXPERIENCE
Experience working with a Tribal Nation to understand tribal government structure, policy making, procedures, and practices
About the Program
NNWO developed the program with the intent to prepare students for a future career in government and legislative affairs. Recognizing that for many students, internships are their first exposure to working in an office environment, NNWO wanted to provide interns with a genuine glimpse into the dynamics of office culture and the specialized domain of legislative affairs.
Structure of the Program
Our program is tailored to the interests of each intern. They select a portfolio topic that is aligned with their interests and is guided through the program. Each week of the program is dedicated to a targeted theme. To monitor advancement in skill and learning objectives, interns are assigned tasks linked to the focal theme of the week. - Week 1: Introduction to Government & Legislative Affairs - Week 2: Research Techniques in Legislative Affairs - Week 3: Policy Analysis Fundamentals - Week 4: Navigating Political Landscapes - Week 5: Problem-Solving and Decision Making - Week 6: Drafting Legislative Essentials - Week 7: Stakeholder Engagement Strategies - Week 8: Professional Development This structured and supportive environment fosters skill development in research, critical thinking, and communication, creating well-rounded professionals for any field.
Responsibilities
Interns at NNWO take on a variety of tasks, including a program-long project. Throughout their time with us, some expected duties and tasks could be: - Assist in conducting reviews and research on proposed and pending legislation and policy initiatives - Assist in analyzing existing federal regulations and laws to provide recommendations on changes that would better serve the interests of the Nation - Assist in the development of reports on the activities of Congress - Prepare materials for specified meetings and accompany staff to meetings - Accompany staff to congressional hearings, press conferences, and markups to gather important information on matters of concern to the Nation
Requirements
Students who wish to apply to our program will need to ensure they meet the following criteria:
- Have availability for the entire duration of the program, and be prepared to travel to Washington, DC
​- Enrolled into a higher education program and be in good standing
It is preferred that the field of study be within government affairs, political science, law, or a related field, however, any student in any field of study is welcome to apply.
Benefits
Our internship provides:
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- Housing and Compensation for the duration of the program
- Hands-on experience working on legislative and government affairs projects
- A unique learning experience tailored to your interests in government, policy, and advocacy
Internship Timeline
February 1
Sign Up For Updates Below
Mid-May
2025 Interns Selected
Mid-April*
Applications Open
June 1
Internship Begins
Early May
Application Deadline
August 2
Internship Ends
*Originally slated for March 17, 2025, the application period for our program has been delayed. Applications will now open Mid-April.
