Due to COVID-19, the AAP has temporarily suspended its federal advocacy internship program and is not accepting interns until further notice. Please check back in the future for updates on the program and reach out to kids1st@aap.org with any questions.  

The AAP Washington, DC office advocates with congressional offices, federal agencies and liaisons with other organizations concerned with child and adolescent health, and the media. The office provides credible background information, expert testimony, pediatric contacts nationwide, and media outreach on the multitude of health and social issues that confront children, families and policymakers.

​Internship for Pediatricians and Pediatricians-in-Training

Since 1981, the AAP Washington Office has had an internship program primarily designed for those interested in learning about child health policy, the legislative process, federal advocacy, and public affairs activities. The internship program is available to medical students, residents, and fellow trainees. While this program is individualized, examples of internship activities include:

  • Hearings and briefings: Interns attend congressional hearings on a variety of child health issues. Interns may also attend Committee meetings, public meetings at federal agencies, general oversight hearings, and/or educational briefings.
  • Research: Interns assist with the preparation of background material on federal policy issues.
  • Coalitions: Interns learn the value of forming useful collaborations with other organizations that have similar goals. Interns have the opportunity to attend coalition meetings with AAP staff and independently.
  • Media: Interns with an interest in journalism can work with public affairs staff on communicating legislative issues effectively to reporters, AAP members and the general public.

Internship Application and Requirements

Due to COVID-19, the AAP has temporarily suspended its federal advocacy internship program and is not accepting interns until further notice. Internship application and requirements information will become available when the program begins accepting applications. Please check back in the future for updates on the program and reach out to kids1st@aap.org with any questions.

Criteria

The internship is available to medical students, residents, and post-residency trainees with an interest and/or specialty in pediatrics. Interns should have a strong demonstrated interest in child health advocacy and at least a basic understanding of U.S. government institutions and processes.

Interns must be members of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Memberships are available at significantly discounted rates for medical students, residents, and post-residency trainees. 

Other Requirements

Interns wear business attire, including a jacket and tie for men.

For additional information regarding the American Academy of Pediatrics' internship program, please contact kids1st@aap.org​.