The foundation runs initiatives that require rigorous analysis of political, economic, and social topics, and at the same time it organizes events, dialogues, and collaborations that need sharp project management skills. So the right way to think about it is not “either/or” but “both, with an emphasis that shifts based on the project.”
Research is an unavoidable component of almost every internship at the foundation. Interns are often tasked with digging into complex issues like democratic resilience, transatlantic relations, or digital policy. This involves reviewing literature, synthesizing data from partners and think tanks, and helping shape policy briefs or publications. If you are academically inclined or enjoy analytical work, this part of the internship gives you room to exercise those skills in a real-world policy setting.
On the other hand, project work is equally central because the Bertelsmann Foundation is not just a research body, it is also a convener. Many interns are involved in planning town halls, organizing panels, or helping coordinate with international stakeholders. That means scheduling, event logistics, communications with policymakers or diplomats, and managing the moving pieces that make high-level dialogue possible. This is where you get practical exposure to how ideas are turned into public discourse and action.
The weight between research and projects is often determined by the initiative you join. For example, if you are working on something like the Transatlantic Periscope, research and comparative analysis across countries will dominate your daily tasks. If you join programs such as Upgrade Democracy, you will likely find yourself combining research on disinformation with hands-on work like event organization and content creation. This flexibility is intentional because it ensures interns do not get siloed into just theory or just operations.
Another key point is that Bertelsmann internships are structured to encourage ownership. Many interns have noted that they were given room to pitch their own ideas, design sub-projects, or test new formats. That could mean starting an enrichment series for students, drafting new approaches to outreach, or helping refine digital platforms. In practice, this makes the role feel more like a hybrid apprenticeship than a one-dimensional internship. You do not just “help” with research or “assist” with events, you get the chance to design and implement.
From a career standpoint, this balance is extremely valuable. Interns who are primarily research-minded gain project management exposure that makes them more employable in NGOs, think tanks, or government agencies. Meanwhile, those who see themselves as project managers get to sharpen their analytical skills and develop credibility when engaging with experts. The mix of both skill sets is one of the reasons Bertelsmann Foundation alumni successfully move into public service, international organizations, and consulting.
Internships at the Bertelsmann Foundation give a clear picture of how impactful and well-rounded these opportunities can be. But it is important to know that Bertelsmann as a whole offers many other internships across its global divisions, from Penguin Random House to RTL Group, BMG, Arvato, and more. If you are motivated to gain international exposure and hands-on experience in one of the world’s leading media and services companies, the broader Bertelsmann internship programs are the best place to start.