Spring 2027 – Children's Advertising Review Unit (CARU) Externship

WHO WE ARE: BBB National Programs, a non-profit organization, is the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, currently operating more than 20 globally recognized programs that have been helping enhance consumer trust in business for more than 50 years. These programs provide third-party accountability and dispute resolution services that address existing and emerging industry issues, create fair competition for businesses, and a better experience for consumers. BBB National Programs continues to evolve its work and grow its impact by providing business guidance and fostering best practices in advertising, child-and-teen-directed marketing, data privacy, dispute resolution, automobile warranty, technology, and emerging areas. ABOUT CARUThe Children's Advertising Review Unit (CARU) is the nation's first and longest-running advertising self-regulatory program dedicated to protecting children from deceptive, misleading, or inappropriate advertising. Since 1974, CARU has promoted responsible advertising directed to children under 13 by evaluating advertising across all media, including television, websites, social media, influencer content, gaming platforms, mobile applications, connected devices, and emerging technologies. CARU reviews advertising directed to children for compliance with its Advertising Guidelines and works collaboratively with advertisers to encourage voluntary compliance. CARU also serves as a leading voice on emerging issues affecting children and teens, including influencer marketing, artificial intelligence, online safety, digital advertising, and evolving marketing practices.

YOUR IMPACT: This externship provides a unique opportunity to gain practical experience at the intersection of advertising law, consumer protection, technology, and child advocacy. The extern will work directly with experienced attorneys on cutting-edge issues involving children's advertising and emerging technologies while gaining exposure to industry self-regulation, FTC guidance, state regulatory developments, and national advertising law.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Monitoring children's advertising across television, streaming services, websites, social media platforms, gaming environments, and other digital media for compliance with the CARU Advertising Guidelines. Reviewing child-directed advertising appearing on gaming and immersive platforms, including Roblox and similar online environments, to identify potentially misleading or inappropriate advertising practices. Identifying questionable advertising claims directed to children under 13, including product performance claims, influencer marketing, AI-related claims, health and safety claims, and emerging advertising trends. Conducting legal and policy research regarding children's advertising, Federal Trade Commission guidance, state attorney general activity, and self-regulatory precedent. Assisting CARU attorneys with active case work, including the review of advertising claims, supporting research, and preparation of inquiry materials. Monitoring developments involving child influencers, social media advertising, AI-powered products and services, connected toys, and other emerging technologies affecting children. Assisting with planning and preparation for CARU's annual Kids Industry Connect (KIC) conference, including research on emerging topics and potential speakers. Supporting CARU initiatives involving the Teen Advertising Guidance Working Group, including research into emerging advertising practices and policy developments. Tracking recent FTC actions, state attorney general initiatives, and significant litigation relating to children's advertising, online safety, AI, influencer marketing, and related consumer protection issues. Assisting in the preparation of presentations, educational materials, and thought leadership addressing emerging issues in children's advertising and responsible marketing. WHAT YOU WILL BRING

Must have: Current J.D. candidate with an interest in advertising law, consumer protection, privacy, technology, or administrative law. Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills. Interest in digital media, social media, gaming platforms, influencer marketing, and emerging technologies. Ability to analyze advertising from the perspective of child audiences and identify potential compliance issues. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Location: McLean, VA or New York, NY

Hours: Flexible