Tiara Allen, Class of 2027, has been accepted into the Summer 2026 HS-POWER Internship with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
What Is the HS-POWER Program?
The Homeland Security Professional Opportunities for the Student Workforce to Experience Research (HS-POWER) program, administered by the DHS Science and Technology Directorate, is a highly competitive opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to intern with DHS and work on solving critical technology problems alongside DHS professionals.
Every June, S&T welcomes students from across the U.S. and its territories to the ten-week program, which is geared toward students in STEM fields as well as political and social sciences. Each intern is paired with a mentor at DHS headquarters, a DHS component, or a DHS laboratory, providing the opportunity to network with DHS professionals and researchers. Participants take part in paid research opportunities within homeland security-related areas.
This isn’t a passive learning experience. HS-POWER participants engage in quality research experiences with federal research facilities and other HS-STEM focused entities nationwide, gaining a competitive edge as they apply their knowledge to real-world challenges.
In Tiara’s Own Words
What makes this story even more special is the intentionality behind Tiara’s application. Inspired by a policy internship in Atlanta that brought her face-to-face with the Department’s work, she pursued this opportunity with clear purpose. In her own words: “I chose the DHS internship because it offers a unique opportunity to apply my skills to mission-critical challenges while gaining firsthand experience in protecting national security and public safety. I am eager to contribute to the innovative strategies used to keep our communities resilient and secure.”
That kind of self-awareness and drive is exactly what sets our Belles apart.
Tiara’s journey reminds us that great careers are built one bold decision at a time. This summer, she’ll be in the rooms where national security decisions are shaped — and she’ll be ready.
