Program Description: 

The Sophomore Career Exploration Internship gives undergraduate sophomores the opportunity to gain valuable work experience at a unique institution. Through dynamic, project-based work assignments and professional development activities, students get: 

• A cohort-based learning model with a strong sense of community 

• Real-world experience that helps them build strong skills and knowledge in their area of interest 

• The chance to contribute to meaningful work that makes an impact on the lives of all Americans 

• Opportunities to meet, network with, and work alongside our mission-driven, curious colleagues—all of whom are happy to share their experiences and advice 

• An experienced professional mentor to support them throughout the program 

• Access to learning events with senior leaders from the New York Fed, giving them direct insight into the public service and financial services world 

Sophomore interns work in one specific business area or function for ten weeks, and have access to opportunities for collaboration with other students and employees from around the Bank.  

At the end of the program, students leave with strong skills, professional connections, and meaningful experiences that will support them in their long-term careers. 

Our Unique Work: 

The Communications and Outreach Group works to develop, coordinate, and disseminate information about the New York Fed and its work to external audiences and to gather information from and develop impactful programming in the communities it serves. The Outreach & Education Function, located within Communications & Outreach Group, engages with, empowers, and educates the public in the Second District that the Bank serves, especially community, business and civic leaders, students, educators, small business owners, policy makers, and the general public. 

About Community Development: Community development is one of the Federal Reserve’s core functions as the U.S. central bank, rooted in the Federal Reserve’s mandates from Congress. Our Community Development team works to understand the economic experiences of lower-income households and communities to help build a stronger economy for all Americans. We listen to better understand how economic conditions are impacting consumers and workers in urban, suburban, and rural communities across the Second District. We conduct research and share information to inform local efforts to promote economic opportunity. We convene and connect local stakeholders, including financial institutions, local nonprofits, and funders, to identify emerging issues and opportunities to collaborate. 

How You’ll Make an Impact as a Communications & Outreach Intern  

• Perform literature review and research topics concerning community development topics of interest (e.g. health, resiliency, household financial well-being, digital access, etc.) 

• Contribute to thought leadership and support strategies and analysis in the field of community development/anti-poverty policy and practice  

• Help develop relationships with collaborators to enhance cooperation (e.g. regulated banks, researchers, finance experts, nonprofits, government agencies, community development entities, health care practitioners, foundations, and international organizations) 

The Unique Skill Sets We’re Looking For: 

• Interest in Community Development/People & Place-based Initiatives. 

• Detail oriented with excellent interpersonal and written communication skills. 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 

• Interest in compiling data and analyzing large datasets for internal presentations and external engagements. 

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Teams, Excel, Word) and Acrobat. 

• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment. 

To Apply:  The application deadline is September 28th, 2026 (11:59 PM EST) *. This is a paid internship. Please note, summer housing is not provided. Expected graduation between Winter 2028 Spring 2029 

Other Things to Know: 

Salary Range:  Your regular wages for the 10 weeks will be paid on a semi-monthly basis and will be calculated based on an annual salary of $65,600 

We believe in transparency at the New York Fed. This salary range reflects a variety of skills and experiences candidates may bring to the job. We pay individuals along this range based on their unique backgrounds. Whether you’re stretching into the job or are a more seasoned candidate, we aim to pay competitively for your contributions.