Summer 2025 - Research Intern, Vera Louisiana

As a Summer 2025 Research Intern at Vera Louisiana, you will engage in a variety of impactful tasks, such as supporting mixed methods research projects, analyzing datasets, and attending meetings with partner organizations. You will gain experience in applied research, advocacy strategies, and administrative support, all while being guided by experienced professionals in the field.

Candidates for the Summer 2025 Research Intern position at Vera Louisiana should be currently enrolled in a graduate program in a relevant field such as public health or social sciences. An interest in applied social justice research, strong organizational skills, and effective communication abilities are key qualifications for this role.

The Summer 2025 Research Intern plays a crucial role in advancing local social justice advocacy efforts at Vera Louisiana by gathering and analyzing data, participating in coalition meetings, and engaging in public policy advocacy initiatives. This hands-on experience contributes directly to Vera's mission to transform the criminal legal system.

The Summer 2025 Research Intern at Vera Louisiana receives hourly compensation ranging from $16.00 to $25.00, depending on experience and performance. Additionally, for those seeking academic credit, Vera will assist in coordinating any necessary arrangements with universities.

During the internship, the Summer 2025 Research Intern at Vera Louisiana will develop skills in applied research, data analysis, written communication, and advocacy. The position also offers opportunities to enhance interpersonal skills through collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the criminal justice system.

To effectively answer this question, discuss your academic background and any experiences that have shaped your perspective on social justice issues. Highlight specific instances where you engaged with social justice topics, and connect them to your motivation for working with Vera, focusing on your passion for fostering systemic change.

In addressing this inquiry, be sure to mention specific tools or methodologies you’ve used for data analysis, highlighting any coursework or projects that required these skills. Discuss the outcomes of your work and your ability to derive insights from data that can inform advocacy efforts.

Share your approach to prioritization, emphasizing organizational tools or techniques you use, such as to-do lists or time management software. Provide an example of a time when you had to manage multiple tasks and explain how you ensured timely completion without sacrificing quality.

Discuss any previous experiences where you successfully communicated with people from various backgrounds. Highlight your adaptability and cultural sensitivity, along with any specific strategies you employ for ensuring clarity and understanding in discussions or presentations.

To tackle this question, mention specific issues you’ve researched or followed, demonstrating a solid understanding of the local context. Articulate why these issues matter to you personally and consider how they align with Vera's mission, showing your commitment to addressing them through research and advocacy.

Be prepared to describe a specific project, detailing your role, the collaborative process, and the result of your efforts. Highlight any challenges faced and how you contributed to overcoming them, showcasing your teamwork skills and ability to work effectively with others.

Emphasize the importance of active listening and attentiveness during interviews and focus groups. Discuss specific methods you would employ for making thorough notes while remaining engaged with participants, such as recording main themes and participant quotes without losing the flow of conversation.

This question is an opportunity to reflect on your objectives for the internship. Articulate your goals regarding learning about social justice research and advocacy, and how you wish to contribute to Vera's mission, demonstrating your enthusiasm for personal and professional growth throughout the experience.

Communicating your openness to feedback is key. Share an experience where you received constructive feedback, explaining how it helped you improve your work. Emphasize your willingness to adapt and learn from those around you as essential traits for professional development in research.

Use this question to convey your genuine interest in Vera’s mission and values. Discuss what particularly draws you to their work, such as specific initiatives or values, and how they align with your personal mission or career aspirations in social justice reform.