What is The Peter Roth Internship?

The Peter Roth Internship, named in honor of the legendary television executive, offers 20 talented undergraduate students whose perspectives and experiences are not widely represented in the media and entertainment industry an unrivaled paid apprenticeship experience for those interested in a career in television. This prestigious internship has been created to inspire the next generation of television professionals to embody Peter Roth’s visionary ideals including his commitment to innovative storytelling, his love for writers, and his passion for the art form of television. The program will also underscore the critical importance of nurturing an array of creative voices and portrayals on television—a hallmark of Peter Roth’s career.

The Paley Center will offer students a comprehensive, paid internship that expands upon the institution’s long-running accredited internships. Interns will attend guest lectures, meet-and-greets, and Q&A sessions with television executives, talent, showrunners, writers, and other members of a creative team to gain an appreciation for the art of storytelling. The internship will also include first-hand experience working at the Paley Center, along with access to the renowned Paley Archive, site visits to networks and sets to provide a valuable understanding of the business side of television.

The Peter Roth Internship is made possible by generous support from Ava DuVernay’s ARRAY Alliance, The Berlanti Family Foundation, The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation, and The Katie McGrath & J.J. Abrams Family Foundation.

What are the fulfillment hours for The Peter Roth Internship?

The Peter Roth Internship runs from June 2, 2026, through July 9, 2026.

• Tuesday through Thursday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm ET, unless time is shifted to allow participation in a Paley program that is in the early morning, evening, or on the weekend. 

The internship will be held in-person at The Paley Center in New York City.

When can I apply to The Peter Roth Internship?

The application process will open on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, and close on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11:59 pm ET. Click here to email any questions.

What is the timeline for applying and interviewing for The Peter Roth Internship?

• The application will open on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, and close on Wednesday,
  January 14, 2026, at 11:59 pm ET. 

• Semi-finalists will be notified on or before Monday, February 9, 2026.

• Semi-finalist interviews will be scheduled for February 2026.

• Finalists will be selected and internship offers will be made by Friday, March 27, 2026.

Who is eligible to apply to The Peter Roth Internship?

• Students whose perspectives and experiences are not widely represented in the media and entertainment industry are strongly encouraged to apply.

• Undergraduate students who are rising juniors and seniors and currently enrolled in a college degree program at an accredited college/university with a GPA of 3.2 or higher.

• Interns must confirm they can commit to the timeline of the internship from June 2, 2026 to July 9, 2026.

• Must have the legal right to work in the United States. (If offered a position, the Immigration Reform & Control Act of 1986 requires you to furnish proof of your employment eligibility and identity before you can begin work.)

What criteria will be used to select candidates?

Selection as a Peter Roth Intern is based on a combination of the following criteria:

• A strong interest in pursuing a career in television.

• A talented, enthusiastic and highly motivated individual who demonstrates the following:

  • Evidence of exemplary academic achievement and exceptional leadership skills.

  • Outstanding verbal communication and superior writing skills.

  • Evidence of the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

  • A positive and professional demeanor with excellent interpersonal skills.

  • An ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks while being extremely organized and detail-oriented.

  • Evidence of their creativity and resourcefulness with strong problem-solving skills.

• Junior or senior level year of study by September 2026.

• GPA of 3.2 or higher

Will I be paid as part of The Peter Roth Internship?

Yes, interns will be paid $17.00 per hour.

What documents will I need to submit for The Peter Roth Internship?

For a complete application, students will need to provide their:

• Resume and cover letter

• Answers to the essay questions

• 2 letters of recommendation from either a professor, a school advisor, or a current/former supervisor who can speak about your education work or background, character or professional competence, and interest in the entertainment, media and television field (please provide contact information such as email address and phone number for references to be reached for follow-up)

• 1 writing sample for collegiate coursework (at most 3 pages) related to media and/or the media industry are encouraged, but not required

Transcript (while an unofficial transcript is acceptable for the initial application process, all Finalists will be required to submit an official school transcript. Finalists only will be reimbursed if there is a cost from the school to obtain an official transcript).

Will housing be provided?

Interns are responsible for their own housing as the Paley Center is unable to provide accommodations.

Learn tips to get your application noticed!

You are invited to join our live Q&A sessions on Zoom covering frequently asked questions on these dates:

• Tues. Oct 28 at 4:00 pm ET / 1:00 pm PT
• Mon. Nov. 10 at 7:30 pm ET/ 4:30 pm PT
• Wed. Dec 3 at 4:00 pm ET / 1:00 pm PT
• Thu. Dec 11 at 7:30 pm / 4:30 pm PT

RSVP Now