** WE ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICANTS FOR SUMMER 2009**

U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Internship

"Working with the Commercial Service in Chicago has been an incredible experience!"   --- Feedback from Summer 2008 intern

The U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce is a federal government agency dedicated to helping small-to-medium sized U.S. companies with their exporting strategies. For over 25 years the U.S. Commercial Service has successfully brought together exporters of U.S. goods and services with importers from around the world. Our team of more than 1,300 trade professionals in 100+ U.S. cities and 80+ U.S. Embassies around the world is here to help companies navigate the complex world of international trade so they can start exporting or increase sales to new global markets.

The U.S. Department of Commerce Commercial Service Chicago office offers internships that allow students to spend time on the inside track of international business and gain real world experience that can provide an essential edge for entering today's job market. Participants will learn to answer inquiries from exporters regarding trade requirements, regulations, documentation, country issues and commodity classifications; contact exporters to determine interest in overseas trade shows, export leads, seminars and other trade activities; and utilize federal government databases, trade journals and internet based market research to disseminate information to exporting companies.

Internship Eligibility:

Those interested in the intern position must be a U.S. citizen and be currently enrolled in a college or university. International Trade Interns should be able to communicate in a professional environment and willing to learn. Applicants majoring in a business-related curriculum or international affairs are encouraged to apply. Seeking self-starter with excellent writing and communication skills. Part-time (minimum 20 hours per week) and full-time positions available. Internship is an unpaid position. If you are a foreign student, you will be required to provide a copy of your Naturalization certificate, prior to starting the internship.

Major Areas of Study:

All Business Majors, Economics, Political Science, Public Policy & Administration, Law, International Relations, Marketing, Foreign Language, Communications, Sociology, Geography and History students are encouraged to apply.

***University Credit Available***

Daily Job Activities:

International Trade Interns become involved in the daily operational aspects of managing a high activity office. Projects range from coordinating market research to counseling U.S. companies seeking new international trade partners. Interns will be required to support our International Trade Specialists with development of trade seminars, presentations and other projects, as well as assist walk-in visitors, handle telephone calls, light clerical and administrative support duties.

To Apply: WE ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICANTS FOR SUMMER 2009

There is no deadline to apply, applications are accepted on a rolling basis, start/end dates are negotiable with each student (minimum 3 month duration preferred). Please send your resume, and introductory cover letter stating what you have to offer and how you hope to benefit from the internship. Indicate current year in school, major, areas of interest and available time commitment (daily hours and start/end dates).  Please also include a short writing sample on any topic (no more than 5 pages).

If you would like to contact a former intern and ask about their experience working in our office, please mention in cover letter, we will be happy to provide their contact information. Meet the Chicago Interns!: http://www.buyusa.gov/midwest/228.html.

A comprehensive background check is required by Commerce security office once intern is selected. Process can take  up to 1 month, please apply early to allow for processing time.

Please forward documents to the attention of Export Assistance Specialists Connie Green at connie.green@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov and Vicki Tolefree at vicki.tolefree@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov . For questions, please call Connie or Vicki at 312-353-8040. 

**WE ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICANTS FOR SUMMER 2009**