The Make Room Mentorship Program seeks young professionals, students, and recent graduates with less than five years of relevant work experience (excluding military service) who are interested in learning about and working in the national security and foreign policy space. 

Applicants selected to join the program will be paired with an experienced national security professional who best meets their specific mentorship needs. Programming will run from June to December, 2025, with virtual and in-person events throughout. This is a unique opportunity for young professionals within and outside of Washington, D.C., to receive guidance from individuals with experience in government, think tanks, the private sector, and other relevant industries. 

Throughout the mentorship program, Make Room will organize networking sessions and a professional development workshop for all participants, in addition to guidance on how to navigate networking opportunities and best practices for the most rewarding mentorship experience. 

Please note that applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM EST on Sunday, May 4, 2025. Decisions will be conveyed to all applicants by the end of July 2025.

Complete applications include:

• An application form (below)
• Resume (1-2 pages max)

Please note: do not apply through Indeed. 

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For more information about the program and application, please visit: https://www.cnas.org/next-generation-programs/make-room-initiative. 

For questions concerning this mentorship program, please contact makeroom@cnas.org.