These idea generators are fueled by in-house scholars and research fellows. An intern with one of these organizations will often have the opportunity to assist in research (along with performing administrative duties) and participate in forums and other activities sponsored by the think tank. Internships with a think tank can expose students to some of the leading scholars on a variety of policy topics, from international relations to tax policy.

As with most of Washington, DC, the think tanks fall along ideological lines, but the divisions are more subtle than the sharp fault lines of national politics. For example, within what would generally be described as conservative think tanks, there are major players representing conservatives (Heritage Foundation), libertarians (Cato Institute) and neo-conservatives (American Enterprise Institute). On the liberal side, major players include the Brookings Institute and the Center for International Policy.

Beyond the most prominent think tanks, there are many others organized around a single issue or idea. For example, the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies was formed to address solutions to international terrorism in the wake of the September 11 attacks.

Many think tanks offer internship programs, and the specifics of the experience will vary greatly among the many programs. However, in general, students should look for a few key attributes in researching internship opportunities with think tanks:

• Does the think tank's philosophy match your own? If not, it could lead to an unhappy experience among people who by their very nature are very opinionated.

• Will the internship provide a range of experiences and contacts, or will the experience be limited (i.e. spending 90% of your time answering phones)?

• Will there be an opportunity to be involved in the research or publication of the organization's scholarship?

Examples of think tanks

The American Enterprise Institution -- A conservative-oriented think tank, AEI researches and promotes a strong national defense, limited government and private enterprise. www.aei.org

The Brookings Institution -- A more liberal-oriented think tank, the Brookings Institution offers policy solutions to a variety of issues, including economics, government reform, and international relations. www.brookings.org.

The Cato Institute -- Libertarian in orientation, the Cato Institute supports public policies that strengthen individual liberty, free markets, limited government, and peace. www.cato.org

The Center for International Policy -- Focusing on a liberal approach to foreign policy, the Center for International Policy promotes a U.S. foreign policy based on international cooperation, demilitarization, and respect for human rights. www.ciponline.org

The Heritage Foundation -- Founded in 1873, the Heritage Foundation formulates and promotes conservative public policies based on free enterprise, individual freedom, a strong national defense, traditional American values, and limited government. www.heritage.org.

Progressive Policy Institute -- The Progressive Policy Institute serves as a think tank for moderate Democrats and promotes policies on foreign policy, economics issues, and government reform that reflects a less liberal approach than traditional Democrat views. www.ppionline.org