Marketing Internship Frequently Asked Questions

Is the internship paid?
PETA provides a $50 weekly stipend and lunch five days a week. Free housing is also available for a limited number of interns.

How long are internships?
PETA is very flexible about the length of internships. Generally, the length depends on the needs and desires of the organization and the individual. Some people have interned for a week, and others have interned for more than a year. The average internship is for about three months.

When is the deadline to apply?
We accept applications and interns all year. Once we receive all your application materials, you will be notified of a decision within two weeks.

What documents are required?
The intern application, a résumé, three letters of recommendation, and a skeleton marketing plan based around two of our campaigns. A current driving record is helpful but not essential.

What are the intern qualifications?
Must be 18 years old. Must be currently in college or have one year of relevant marketing experience.

What kind of work will I be doing?
Assignments are flexible and based on the needs of the organization and the skills and interests of the intern. Projects will include creating, implementing, and analyzing aspects of marketing campaigns. We will work with you to help determine your goals and to help meet those goals. We’ll make sure you get the marketing experience that you are looking for and have relevant experience for your résumé.

Will I be able to travel?
A highlight of being an intern at PETA is traveling as part of various campaigns. You will have the opportunity to join short trips if you are interested.

Where will I live?
Interns live at the Gordon House, located about a mile and a half from PETA headquarters in the heart of Ghent—Norfolk's trendy, historic neighborhood. The house accommodates up to 13 people and has eight bedrooms, three bathrooms, two kitchens, and a washer and dryer. Restaurants, coffee shops, supermarkets, boutiques, a park, and an art house theater are within walking distance.

What kind of training will I receive?
Interns attend a weekly training session on building activist skills. In addition, there are opportunities to attend various presentations and a new-intern orientation offered quarterly. A tour of the building and the PETA Library and Literature Department are also scheduled to help you learn about the resources available to you at PETA.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your clothes and personal items. Linens, laundry and dish detergent, cookware, dishes, and utensils are provided at the Gordon House. You are responsible for your own food during non-work hours, and there are several grocery stores within walking distance of the Gordon House. You will not need a car or a computer, but you are welcome to bring them.

What is the office dress code?
Because of PETA's high visibility, we strive to present a professional image. Interns should dress neatly and not wear clothes that draw attention to the "messenger" rather than to the "message." Office attire is "business casual," so the following are prohibited: jeans, shorts, tank tops, and crop tops. As an animal rights organization, PETA does not permit the wearing of any animal products (fur, leather, wool, silk, etc.) in the building or at PETA-sponsored events.

Is there a computer and Internet access in the Gordon House?
Yes, one computer with Internet service is provided.

Are animal companions allowed at the Gordon House?
No.

Does PETA cover transportation costs?
Interns are responsible for getting to and from Norfolk. A PETA representative will meet you at the airport and drive you to the Gordon House. (Be sure to provide us with a complete itinerary as soon as you know your travel plans.) You will be given a complete tour of the house upon your arrival.

How will I travel back and forth between the Gordon House and PETA headquarters?
The Gordon House is located approximately 1 1/4 miles from PETA. Bicycles and helmets are provided for interns, and there is also a footpath that interns can take to and from the office.

What is there to do after work?
Hampton Roads is the bustling beachside community comprising Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Newport News. The Gordon House, located in Norfolk, is just 25 minutes from the beach. For entertainment on dry land, there are many shops, restaurants, and activities throughout Hampton Roads. You won't have to go further than a few blocks from the Gordon House to find restaurants and coffee shops with great vegan food. Please visit hamptonroads.cox.net for more details. We provide a reference book at the Gordon House that details all the various entertainment venues.

What if I would like to work at PETA?
Interning is a great way to determine whether PETA is a place where you would want to work, although there is no guarantee that you will be offered a position if you intern. Still, we can promise that you will gain a great understanding of animal rights and learn about the inner workings of the most effective organization in the movement. The internship also gives you a great opportunity to network with PETA staff members and develop your talents and skills.