Historical Research and Writing Intern

Job Description:  The SDCTA historical research and writing intern will research and document an evidence-based history of the Association and its related educational foundation and their impact on local governance and public policy efficiency and effectiveness. The review may be on such matters as state and local ballot propositions, taxation, regional transportation, public finance, performance of governmental agencies and major public works projects. By studying our archives (currently located at the San Diego History Center), interviewing community leaders, and consulting other primary and secondary sources, interns will gain a clear understanding of the history of local governance and how the exercise by the Association of First Amendment rights to assemble and petition have affected the structure and process of the many layers of San Diego county governance, both positively and negatively. For those students pursing a career in museum curation and educational programs or scholarly pursuits in political economy, this is an invaluable opportunity to gain practical work experience in your discipline, to network with thought leaders in the region, and to impact an effort that will be very visible in 2020.

 While the primary output of this internship is a well-organized written history, the internship can—depending on the interest of the intern—include opportunities to develop audio and visual records for usage in a future museum exhibit or other educational materials.

Although this is an unpaid position, students may earn academic credit for the internship through their university's internship program office, if available.

Qualifications:   The Association is seeking interns with demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and prepare cogent and well-written reports in a timely manner with minimal supervision; passion for local politics is helpful. Commitment to fairness and the truth is a must.

History and sociology majors preferred.

Interns will be expected to work a minimum of 16 hours a week through the majority of Summer 2019. Those interns who work full time will be able to maximize the training and networking opportunity. The internship can extend into the Fall term in a part-time capacity at a minimum of 8 hours per week. When not reviewing evidence at the San Diego History Center or in the Association offices, interns will be able to work remotely by approval of their supervisor.

How to Apply: Please send a resume, cover letter and writing sample to info@sdcta.org.   Internship applications are accepted on a rolling basis. For UCSD students, please inform Professor Mark Hendrickson that you’ve applied.