GW Humanitarian Internship Program
The Humanitarian Internship Program (HIP) is a university-funded summer initiative that offers GW undergraduate and graduate students paid, full-time internships with leading humanitarian organizations tackling urgent local and global challenges. Over 10 weeks, students gain practical experience while contributing to meaningful humanitarian work.
More than just internships, HIP is a cohort-based learning experience designed to cultivate the next generation of humanitarian leaders. Students are matched with host organizations aligned with their skills and interests, engaging in professional work across policy, logistics, communications, data analysis, and development.
To enrich their experience, students take part in six required cohort trainings focused on essential humanitarian leadership skills, including:
- Ethical decision-making
- Cross-cultural collaboration
- Professional communication
- Sector knowledge and awareness
- Applied problem-solving
- Career and leadership development
Built on mentorship, peer support, and reflective learning, HIP equips students with practical skills, professional networks, and deeper insight into the humanitarian field. At summer’s end, participants present posters showcasing their contributions and lessons learned at a university-wide event, highlighting both their impact and the program’s value.
Detailed information can be found on the program website.