Strategic Communications Intern (Summer)

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.

Are you a detail-oriented, creative, and driven student interested in strategic communications and storytelling? AARP is looking for you! In this role, you will support the Strategic Communications Team by collaborating with Strategy Directors on projects that shape messaging and support communications planning across key initiatives. You’ll gain hands-on experience developing written content, crafting messaging frameworks, and contributing to report writing, while also supporting project management efforts to keep initiatives on track. This internship offers the opportunity to explore emerging tools, including the use of AI in communications, and to apply innovative thinking to real-world challenges. AARP is committed to your growth and professional development. This paid internship is for Summer 2026.

• Engage in developing communications strategies that support strategic planning process
• Assist as needed with writing, editing, including message development
• Apply innovative thinking and problem-solving to challenges in a matrix environment
• Assist in analysis of campaigns and telling the story of learnings and successes
• Assist in creating eye-catching presentations
• Participate in team meetings and strategy discussions, collaborate in communications tactics, and engage in a support role for various remote and in-person events

• Must be enrolled in a degree program at an accredited college or university as a rising undergraduate junior or senior, graduate student, or postdoctoral student, and remain academically enrolled throughout the internship
• Pursuing a degree in communications, marketing, journalism, or related fields
• Must be a self-starter and adaptable, with the ability to work under tight deadlines
• Ability to manage multiple projects, anticipate project needs, and discern work priorities
• Ability to work well with diverse populations, including gender, race, and sexual orientation
• Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office programs 
• Excellent writing skills

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.