AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health and financial security, and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin.
AARP’s Policy, Research and International Affairs leads the development and communication of AARP’s public policies and, research and insights on the issues that matter to people 50-plus.
AARP’s Public Policy Institute (PPI) is seeking a summer intern with an interest in health care policy. The Health Policy Intern will support a wide range of research and communication activities across diverse health care and public health policy areas affecting older adults. Topics may include Medicare, Medicaid, private health insurance, food security, preventive care, health care delivery, and related policy issues. This paid summer internship has a start date of Summer 2026, with the possibility of extending additional semesters.
Responsibilities
The Health Policy Intern will work with a team of health policy advisors to support new and ongoing research projects. Responsibilities could include:
- Providing data and research support, such as gathering, extracting, organizing, and interpreting public use data; creating charts or basic data visualizations; conducting literature reviews and environmental scans; or compiling state examples of relevant health policies or programs
- Monitoring and analyzing federal and state health policy developments relevant to PPI’s work
- Assisting with drafting and editing policy summaries, internal briefing memos, and other written materials; proofreading reports; and preparing meeting notes from external convenings
- Drafting social media content (especially for LinkedIn or X) related to new publications or events; assisting with slide deck preparation; and organizing or updating content for the PPI website
- Assisting with planning and logistics for events such as roundtables or webinars, and researching potential speakers, partners, or topics for future work
Qualifications
- The ideal candidate is a graduate student currently enrolled in a degree program at an accredited college or university, or a postdoctoral student, and must remain academically enrolled for the duration of the internship
- Pursuing a Master of Public Administration, Public Policy, Public Health, or similar program
- Strong research skills are essential, along with comfort working with data and in Excel (statistical software knowledge not required)
- The ability to translate complex data or policy issues into clear, accessible language
- This position requires a strong interest in health policy and aging-related issues. Familiarity with policymaking processes and relevant policy topics is helpful
- The successful candidate will be highly organized, detail-oriented, self-motivated, and adaptable. They should be flexible, interested in working across a range of projects, and able to communicate clearly and collaborate effectively
- The ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, anticipate project needs, and prioritize tasks is essential
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is required
- Experience creating data visualizations and/or familiarity with social media platforms like LinkedIn and X is a plus
AARP will not sponsor an employment visa for this position at this time.
Additional Requirements
- Regular and reliable job attendance
- Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships
- In office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively surrounded by moderate noise
Hybrid Work Environment
AARP observes Mondays and Fridays as remote workdays, except for essential functions. Remote work can only be done within the United States and its territories.
Compensation and Benefits
The hourly range is $18 for undergraduates, $21 for graduate students, and $28 for Ph.D. candidates. Internships are non-exempt positions and are not eligible for employee benefits.
Equal Employment Opportunity
AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.