Local History Intern (Full-Time)

About the Role

Local History interns work within WETA’s Digital Media team to develop content for Boundary Stones, WETA’s local history initiative. Through articles, photos, video and social media, Boundary Stones seeks to highlight the notable events, personalities and happenings that have shaped the Washington, D.C. area’s past.

Key Responsibilities

• Brainstorm and pitch article/content ideas for the Boundary Stones website.
• Conduct historical research using primary and secondary sources.
• Write articles for the Boundary Stones website.
• Locate historical photos and videos and determine permissions for use.
• Create social media friendly Boundary Stones content such as quizzes and trivia.
• Contribute to Boundary Stones social media accounts and participate in larger conversations about local history.
• Update the Boundary Stones promotional calendar.
• Participate in meetings with the larger Digital Media team.

Education & School Year

• Preferred Year In School: Rising Junior, Rising Senior, Graduate Student
• Preferred Major: History, English, Museum Studies, or Journalism

Learning Objectives

• Expand knowledge of Washington, D.C. area history including racial and class dynamics, notable events, neighborhood development, influential figures, etc.
• Grow critical thinking skills through thoughtful interrogation of historical sources.
• Sharpen writing skills, specifically non-academic, narrative-style prose suitable for a general audience.
• Develop a greater understanding of social media voice and techniques by contributing to Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, etc.
• Become familiar with the world of public media.

Desired Competencies

• Excellent writing and research skills.
• Careful attention to detail.
• Interest in local history and community.

Location

• WETA and NewsHour Productions are Washington, DC established media and news organizations.
• Most positions based in our Arlington, VA office will be onsite or hybrid, depending upon the role.