Opened on the National Mall on September 21, 2004, the National Museum of the American Indian is a major exhibition space for Native art and material culture as well as a center for educational activities and performances. The following list provides a general overview of the ongoing work of departments within the NMAI, Washington, D.C., as well as associated internship opportunities. When you begin the application process, a drop-down menu will allow you to select from the choices that are currently available.

If you are currently enrolled in an academic program you are eligible to apply. If you are Not a current student then you may still apply, but you will need to use the essay portion of the application to state how an internship in the particular department you select will benefit your academic and professional goals. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or its equivalent is generally expected (with withdrawals and incompletes explained). All applicants must register and submit an online application via the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment system (SOLAA). Select "National Museum of the American Indian" from the drop-down program list. All components of the application that are required for NMAI internships must be uploaded via SOLAA. Do Not send components separately. Checklist: Online application Statement of interest: questions to address are on the application Transcripts (uNofficial are preferred) CV or résumé Two letters of recommendation: SOLAA system allows references to confidentially upload letters into your application.

Interns in Public Affairs assist in the day-to-day media operations of the NMAI, including the News Bureau, Speakers Bureau, and media event planning. Tasks include working with public affairs staff to update media databases, pitch media stories, distribute press releases, monitor news coverage, and assemble clipping reports. Interns also write follow-up correspondence for both media and general public requests and assist with photo needs, including shooting, selecting, captioning, and distributing images. This internship is ideal for students majoring in journalism, public affairs, public/media relations, marketing, or advertising.