Writerjournalist Internship Part Time Remote

Writer/Journalist Internship (Part-Time, Remote) at The Borgen Project — Research Report

Introduction

The Writer/Journalist Internship (Part-Time, Remote) at The Borgen Project offers a unique pathway for aspiring journalists to contribute to global poverty advocacy through high-impact content creation. This role is ideal for students seeking to build a portfolio while working on real stories that shape public opinion and drive policy change. The internship runs for 12 weeks with a flexible commitment of 12 hours per week, and the deadline is not specified, allowing candidates to apply at their convenience. Securing this position provides immediate career benefits, including remote work experience, mentorship from advocacy leaders, and the chance to earn college credit for professional development.

Overview of The Borgen Project

The Borgen Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing poverty across the world by empowering citizens to advocate for effective policies. Unlike traditional media companies, the organization operates at the intersection of journalism, advocacy, and civic engagement, making it a distinct player in the social impact sector. Its primary competitors include other advocacy nonprofits like Oxfam and Global Citizen, but The Borgen Project stands out by focusing specifically on training the next generation of journalists and activists to tell stories that matter. The organization’s key products include BORGEN Magazine and The Borgen Project Blog, which serve as platforms for publishing investigative articles, news analysis, and advocacy-driven content. With a growing digital presence and a network of thousands of engaged advocates, the organization has established a strong market reputation for producing credible, emotionally resonant journalism that drives real-world change. The work environment is remote-first, collaborative, and mission-driven, fostering a culture where curiosity and initiative are valued over perfection. People want to work here because they can directly contribute to solving global poverty while gaining hands-on experience in journalism and advocacy.

Writer/Journalist Internship (Part-Time, Remote) Role

Role Overview

As a Writer/Journalist Intern, you will be responsible for creating compelling content for BORGEN Magazine and The Borgen Project Blog, focusing on topics related to poverty advocacy, global news, and social justice. Your day-to-day work involves researching complex issues, interviewing experts, and writing articles that inform and inspire readers to take action. The intern’s impact is significant, as your stories directly support the organization’s advocacy efforts by raising awareness and mobilizing public support for policy changes. This role is not just about writing; it is about shaping narratives that drive the organization’s mission forward.

Detailed Responsibilities

• Research and write original articles on poverty advocacy, global news, and social justice topics
• Conduct interviews with experts, policymakers, and community leaders to gather insights
• Assist in editing and refining content for clarity, accuracy, and impact
• Support the organization’s advocacy efforts by creating content that mobilizes readers
• Collaborate with the editorial team to develop story ideas and content strategies
• Monitor current events and identify emerging trends relevant to the organization’s mission

Day-to-Day Workflow

Your typical day begins with reviewing current news and identifying story opportunities that align with the organization’s focus on poverty advocacy. You will then spend time researching topics, gathering data, and conducting interviews to build a strong foundation for your article. Midday is dedicated to drafting content, ensuring that your writing is clear, engaging, and aligned with the organization’s voice. Afternoon hours involve editing your work, collaborating with the editorial team, and preparing your article for publication. The workflow is flexible, allowing you to adjust your schedule to meet deadlines while maintaining a steady pace of 12 hours per week over 12 weeks.

Tools and Technologies

The role requires proficiency in standard journalism tools and platforms, including Google Docs for drafting, Slack for team communication, and Zoom for conducting interviews. You will also use WordPress for content management and publishing, as well as social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram to promote your articles. Familiarity with research databases and news aggregators is essential for gathering accurate information and staying informed about global events.

Skills and Requirements

Technical Skills

Candidates must possess strong writing and editing skills, with a proven ability to produce clear, engaging, and accurate content. Proficiency in journalism tools such as Google Docs, WordPress, and social media platforms is required. A solid understanding of research methodologies and the ability to gather information from credible sources are essential. Familiarity with advocacy writing and the ability to frame stories in a way that mobilizes readers is also highly valued.

Soft Skills

Effective communication and teamwork are critical, as you will collaborate closely with the editorial team and external stakeholders. Problem-solving skills are necessary to navigate complex topics and find creative ways to present information. Curiosity and initiative are prioritized over perfection, as the organization values candidates who are eager to learn and take on new challenges. Adaptability is also important, given the remote and flexible nature of the role.

Experience Expectations

While no graduate degree is required, candidates should have a portfolio of writing samples that demonstrate their ability to produce high-quality content. Experience in journalism, advocacy, or social impact is beneficial but not mandatory. A strong GPA is not a strict requirement, but candidates should be currently enrolled in a college or university program. The organization targets rising juniors and seniors who are passionate about making a meaningful impact through their work.

Salary and Benefits

This is an unpaid remote internship, but college credit is available for students who wish to earn academic recognition for their professional development. The internship offers a flexible schedule of 12 hours per week over 12 weeks, allowing you to balance your work with other commitments. While there is no monetary stipend, the experience provides valuable remote work skills, mentorship from advocacy leaders, and the chance to build a professional portfolio that can enhance your career prospects. There is also potential for full-time conversion if the organization identifies high-performing interns for future roles.

The Borgen Project Hiring Process

Step-by-Step Hiring Stages

1. Application: Submit your resume, writing portfolio, and a brief statement of interest
2. Screening: The editorial team reviews applications for alignment with the organization’s mission and writing quality
3. Assignment: Selected candidates complete a short writing assignment to demonstrate their skills
4. Interviews: Top candidates participate in a virtual interview to discuss their experience and fit for the role
5. Offer: Successful candidates receive an internship offer with details on the schedule and expectations

Application Timeline

The application process is ongoing, with no specified deadline, allowing candidates to apply at any time. The typical duration from application to offer is 2–4 weeks, depending on the volume of applications and the complexity of the assignment. It is recommended to apply early to ensure your application is reviewed promptly.

Screening Methods

The organization uses an ATS (Applicant Tracking System) to screen applications for relevant keywords such as journalism, advocacy, and content creation. A strong writing portfolio is essential, as it demonstrates your ability to produce high-quality content. The editorial team also evaluates your statement of interest to assess your passion for the organization’s mission and your fit for the role.

Interview Preparation

Example Interview Questions

• What is your experience with writing for advocacy or social impact organizations?
• How do you approach researching complex topics to ensure accuracy and depth?
• Can you share an example of a story you wrote that successfully mobilized readers to take action?
• Why are you interested in working with The Borgen Project, and how does this role align with your career goals?

How to Answer

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, providing specific examples that demonstrate your skills and experience. Focus on highlighting your passion for advocacy and your ability to produce high-quality content that drives real-world change. Be prepared to discuss your writing process and how you approach research and editing to ensure accuracy and impact.

What Recruiters Evaluate

Recruiters evaluate candidates based on their writing quality, passion for the mission, and ability to collaborate with the editorial team. They also look for curiosity and initiative, as the organization values candidates who are eager to learn and take on new challenges. Your fit for the role and your alignment with the organization’s values are also key factors in the hiring decision.

How to Get Selected

Practical Tips

• Submit a strong writing portfolio that showcases your ability to produce high-quality content on advocacy or social impact topics
• Write a tailored statement of interest that demonstrates your passion for The Borgen Project’s mission and your fit for the role
• Complete the writing assignment with care, ensuring that your content is clear, accurate, and aligned with the organization’s voice
• Prepare for the interview by researching the organization’s work and practicing your responses to common questions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting a generic portfolio that does not demonstrate your ability to write for advocacy or social impact
• Writing a vague statement of interest that fails to show your passion for the organization’s mission
• Completing the writing assignment without attention to detail, accuracy, or alignment with the organization’s voice
• Being unprepared for the interview and failing to demonstrate your fit for the role

How to Stand Out

To stand out, focus on creating a unique portfolio that highlights your ability to write compelling stories that drive real-world change. Network with current or former interns to gain insights into the organization’s culture and expectations. Tailor your application materials to show your deep understanding of The Borgen Project’s mission and your alignment with its values. Finally, demonstrate your curiosity and initiative by asking thoughtful questions during the interview and showing your eagerness to learn and contribute.

Final Thoughts

The Writer/Journalist Internship (Part-Time, Remote) at The Borgen Project is a transformative opportunity for aspiring journalists to make a meaningful impact on global poverty advocacy. By securing this role, you will gain valuable remote work experience, build a professional portfolio, and contribute to stories that drive real-world change. Don’t wait—apply today to join a mission-driven organization that values curiosity, initiative, and the power of storytelling to shape the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the salary for Writer/Journalist Internship (Part-Time, Remote) at The Borgen Project?
This is an unpaid remote internship, but college credit is available for students who wish to earn academic recognition for their professional development.

Q: How competitive is it to get hired at The Borgen Project?
The organization values curiosity and initiative over perfection, and while the role is competitive, candidates with a strong writing portfolio and a passion for advocacy are highly favored.

Q: What skills are most important for this role?
The most important skills include writing and editing, research methodologies, and the ability to produce high-quality content that drives real-world change. Curiosity and initiative are also highly valued.