wh2360

The CIA has a much higher background check threshold. Theirs has to be much more thorough because CIA interns are granted full Top-Secret Security Clearances (sometimes even TSSCI). The CIA interns are paid for their time, and they frequently continue their careers with the CIA. Their application process is MUCH more in depth than the for the WH. The CIA does a full background check, interviews family/friends fro your past, and often requires drug testing/lie detector screenings. It shouldn't come as a surprise, though. The CIA interns, just by working at CIA headquarters, are exposed to some very sensitive national security information, whereas WH interns are exposed (if they're lucky) to semi-sensitive information regarding the inner workings of a presidential administration. Still very important, but less of a national security threat. Hope that makes sense!

I am not sure what type of 'family history' you might be worried about, and I cannot answer your inquiry about you family history's potential to harm your chances, but I can say that you have a much better shot getting an internship at the WH than you have at the CIA (if you have a questionable family past).

The other difference is that the WH program is really structured. You intern in a specific office, doing 'intern work' and attending guest lectures from some really interesting high-level administrators (how cool is that?!), but at the CIA, the program is less intern-work based, and more focused on integrating young talent into their network.

This isn't proprietary information; if you have any questions about the CIA program, you should go visit their website. It tells you all about program requirements and the application process. Happy hunting!

wh2360

@shintelikemystar: that CIA post is for you.

ozzieguillen

Hey guys-been reading this thread lately. I had an interview wednesday, but the person interviewing me was not sure when the central intern office would notify people. Though they did say it was on a rolling basis.

nala1919

Welcome ozzieguillen !! And congrats on the interview. Do you mind sharing what office the interview was with and how it went ?

shinelikemystar

Thanks wh2360!

Aha don't worry, maybe the worst thing in my family background has got to be speeding tickets

I kind of want to do an internship at the CIA but would realistically like to pursue a career in the medical career. I just want the experience and oppuritunity to work/serve the country.

ozzieguillen

It was with the office of scheduling and advance. I think it went well, but I was not able to figure out what percentage of applicants they are interviewing, when they are notifying people, etc. The man who interviewed me said several dept.s could interview a single applicant.

imperfectluck

has anybody gotten an interview from Domestic Policy Council?

Corn15

Congrats!
Did they contact you to schedule the interview or was it a surprise call?

arabianknight

Congrats to all who got interviews/vitals emails!

I got my 'processing' email last week (on the 20th) and haven't heard anything since. At this point, I'm pretty sure those who are in the running should have heard. Womp Womp

Good luck, all!

iChristina2011

Hey guys,

I see all these new faces, the Summer/Fall 2012 participants.

Just be patient. For the Summer 2012 applicants, expect to hear final decisions as late as April/May. The internship program works very hard to get to all of you guys. And yes, many applicants do not get interviews and still get accepted into the program. Be cordial and honest in your interviews. Make the interviewer want to get to know you better.

I suggest you guys start looking for summer housing very soon. Summer Housing in DC (especially on DC college campuses like Georgetown and American U) is very expensive (I'm talking about from $800-$4000 for 3-4 months and sometimes that does not include utilities) so plan accordingly.

Remember that you will also be competing against ten of thousands other interns from other DC area internship programs for the best DC metro accessible housing. The summer brings an estimated 20,000 interns to Washington DC every year!

Tap into your school's Career Development Offices and alumni networks for affordable housing asap. I cannot stress this enough. Then browse through DC Craiglists and look for potential places to live, but be weary of scams and spam. The month before your internship starts will be the one of the most hectic times of your lives because you have to find housing, buy your clothes, buy your plane tickets (if you live far away), etc.

One last piece of advice, when you get here, be humble. Show your office that you are a team player and a hard worker. Be humble. Be humble. Be humble. Ok have to go. Good luck everyone!

arabianknight

Thanks for the up-beat reply! Definitely made my day.

Anyone know if it's rude to call/email to ask about your status? I'm afraid that if I wait until end of April/May, I might miss out on other internships...

whsummer2012

@arabianknight - let me know what they say. I'm inclined to do the same but at this point am ready to get the rejection email already so I can move on!

WH01234567

Hello Everyone! I'm new to college confidential, but have ready almost every post since submitting my application for summer 2012. I've received the vitals email but, am getting nervous as time goes on. I am considering applying for the fall 2012 program before I hear a final decision about my Summer application.

Has anyone considered applying for the fall before hearing back about the summer?

WH01234567

@iChristina2011,

Great advice! Congrats! I've read some of your earlier posts, and am wondering if you can describe your experience so far as an intern?!?!

WHbfAustin

Been following this for a while, but haven't had anything to say yet (as I haven't had anything new or different occur that wasn't already up here).

I received an email from someone with the Domestic Policy Council a few minute ago requesting a phone interview tomorrow afternoon. I would imagine more of these will go out tonight or later this week. Good luck to everyone! (also, DPC was my first choice; not sure if that matters).