Build Research and Writing Experience

Develop your research and writing skills while contributing to SRAS publications and educational resources on Central and Eastern Europe, the Balkans, the Baltics, the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Russia.

Interns research topics that draw on their academic interests, existing knowledge, and/or language skills. Projects may involve preparing an existing paper for publication, developing original articles, and/or expanding or updating collaborative resources. Time frames and projects differ substantially for summer and winter internships, as outlined below. All work is done remotely.

The internship offers experience with the editorial process. You’ll practice independent research, source evaluation, writing, and responding to editorial feedback. Completed work that meets publication standards may appear on the SRAS Family of Sites, helping to build your professional portfolio.

We particularly welcome applications from heritage speakers of languages spoken across the regions SRAS covers. Their language skills and cultural knowledge can be especially valuable for research using local-language sources, contributing firsthand perspectives, and developing resources such as our Talking Phrasebooks.

Summer Internships

Over summer break, students will complete:

  1. A group project working with a student leader and other interns to together produce a substantial informational resource. Topics will vary.
    – AND one of the below –
  2. We can work on papers that students have already written for classes. Students should be ready to expand, polish, and revise their papers to prepare them for publication on the SRAS Family of Sites.
    – OR –
  3. Students will write one or two 3-8 page articles or resource on a subject that they are already familiar with. Subjects should be focused on popular or folk culture, literature, economy, music, art, film, or language.

All texts will go through multiple drafts and revisions with an emphasis on accuracy, clarity, and effective communication.

Award: Students who complete the publication project will be awarded a $200 scholarship towards an SRAS program abroad or $75 towards online study with SRAS. Scholarships awarded through internships are stackable with SRAS Challenge Grants and the SRAS Ambassador program.Online Research Internships center on developing informative, accessible content for the SRAS Family of Sites. Depending on your interests and the needs of our publications, you may research cultural traditions, literature, language, history, contemporary society, or other subjects relevant to the regions SRAS covers.

Winter Internships

Over winter break, students can choose one of two tracks:

  1. We can work on papers that students have already written for classes. Students should be ready to expand, polish, and revise their papers to prepare them for publication on the SRAS Family of Sites.
    – OR –
  2. Write one 4-7 page article or resource on a subject that they are already familiar with. Subjects should be focused on popular or folk culture, literature, music, film, language, or travel within our regions.

All texts will go through multiple drafts and revisions with an emphasis on accuracy, clarity, and effective communication.

Award: Students who complete the publication project will have their application fee waived when signing up for an SRAS program, or $50 applied to their account if they already qualify for a waived application fee. Scholarships awarded through internships are stackable with SRAS Challenge Grants and the SRAS Ambassador program.

Program Details for Internships

To apply, use the Apply Now button on this page. Be sure to upload your resume and one writing sample (Document Upload page). Writing samples about Eurasia-related subjects are desired but not required. If you plan on revising a paper with us, please submit that paper as your writing sample. There is no length requirement (minimum or maximum) for samples; submit what you feel best showcases your research and writing skills. Papers written for classes may be used. You may also address any specific questions about the Online Research Internship to Josh Wilson.

Applicants should have a strong writing skills in English. Applicants must be citizens of the US, Great Britain, Canada, the EU or any country in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, the Balkans, or Central Asia. Knowledge of other languages is desired but not required. University students, highly motivated high school students, young professionals, recent grads, and retirees are all eligible.

This is a non-credit bearing course. However, we have had several interns apply for and receive internship credit through their universities for this experience. If you are interested in this, you should speak to your academic advisor. If you are accepted to the internship program, we can discuss any customization required by your university to meet their credit transfer requirements.