Pathfinders Congressional Internship & Leadership Initiative
Step into Public Office: Present a unique civilizational paradigm, develop leadership skills, and gain hands-on experience in policymaking and governance.
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4000+
Interns from around the country serve in the US Congress.
$24.3M
U.S. House of Representative budget for paid interns as of 2023.
50%
More than half full-time Congressional staff are former interns.
Pathfinders Internship and Leadership Initiative
by HINDUACTion
HINDUACTion is looking for energetic and outgoing American Hindu High School or College students. We offer two distinct internship opportunities for students to learn about and present a unique civilizational paradigm, develop leadership skills and gain hands-on public policy experience at both the State and Federal levels.
These programs provide a chance to make meaningful impact while equipping participants with the educational tools, leadership experience, and valuable networks to excel in public service or any leadership role.
After participating in the leadership initiatives, College students may have the opportunity to intern with Congressional Representatives. High School students may be able to intern with their State or Local Representatives.
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PATHFINDERS American Hindu Congressional Internship
Open to Undergraduates and Graduate students of any major (18+)
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PATHFINDERS American Hindu State Internship
Open to High School and Undergraduate students (16+)
Why Choose Pathfinders
Shape the future of the world!
Unique effort in Education
In partnership with Hindu University of America (HUA) and prominent scholars, situate the development of Hindu thought in its historical as well as socio-political context & contrast them with some of the axiomatic ideas originating from other religions & ideologies.
Leadership Training
Learn different aspects of media, public policy making & their implementation from subject matter experts & policy makers.
Networking
Exclusive networking opportunities with influential thought leaders & policy makers in Washington D.C.
Placement support
Ongoing support for internship placement after successful completion of free educational & leadership training.
Stipend
Earn a generous stipend from HINDUACTion during the internship. Earn up to $4000 from HINDUACTion on top of your Congressional stipend.*
Immersion Program in Washington D.C.
Take a fully paid trip to Washington D.C., and meet and learn from elected officials. Attend 20 hours of in-person training during winter 2026 for students 18 and older. Students under 18 at the time of travel have the option to join the 20-hour training online from their respective locations.
Pathfinders American Hindu Congressional Internship
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Enrolled in University
Enrolled at an accredited university or college in the U.S. or graduated within the last year, with GPA > 3.0.
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Interest
A demonstrated interest in politics, governance, history of Hindu civilization & related fields.
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Attend Training
Attend a 50-hour training program: 25 hours of educational and 25 hours of leadership training. Internship assistance to be provided after the successful completion of the program.
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Adhere to policies
Comply with HinduACTion policies regarding work performance and personal conduct.
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U.S. Citizen
Must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident and over 18 years old.
Pathfinders American Hindu State Internship
- 01
Enrolled in school
Enrolled in High School in the U.S.
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Attend Training
Attend a 50-hour training program: 25 hours of educational and 25 hours of leadership training. Internship assistance to be provided after the successful completion of the program.
- 03
Adhere to policies
Comply with HinduACTion policies regarding work performance and personal conduct.
- 04
U.S. Citizen
Must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident and over 16 years old.
Voices of the Future
Real stories. Real growth. Hear how the Pathfinders experience shaped our next generation of leaders
- Shyla H. State
I’m deeply grateful to the Pathfinders program — not only for expanding my understanding of politics and the world, but also for helping me reconnect with my own culture. From the moment I applied to the day I began my internship, I've felt fully supported by a community that understands and uplifts me. Knowing I can always turn to HinduACTion for guidance means the world to me. This opportunity has truly been life-changing, and I'll always be thankful to the entire HinduACTion team for believing in me and making it possible.
- Minal C. Congressional
What stood out most about Pathfinders was the interview — it focused on my values, not just academics, which made it feel deeply personal. I felt challenged and seen in the best way. From the learning sessions to the DC trip with HinduACTion, the entire experience empowered me as a young Hindu in public service. I connected with like-minded peers, explored new ideas, and gained tools I now use every day in my internship.
- Roshan K. State
My name is Roshan, and I was a 2025 Pathfinders Intern with HinduACTion. The 10-12 week training gave me meaningful insights into Hinduism, Indian culture, history, and American politics. I chose to intern directly with the HinduACTion team on the backend, working 15-20 hours a week — and I've enjoyed every minute. One of the most valuable lessons I've learned is persistence — each challenge has pushed me to think creatively, adapt quickly, and keep moving forward with confidence.
