If you're in DC already, you already have a leg up. Rather than apply to less competitive internships, I'd critically examine your application materials and find ways to stand out.

For example:

• Are you writing unique cover letters and tailoring your CV to each job post?
• Are you applying to internships within your area of specialization?
• Have you networked with alumni?
• Have you spoken to people who work at your target organizations?
• Have you attended internship sessions at school and been to internship presentations if they're offered?
• Have you stalked candidates on LinkedIn to see what professional backgrounds/skills they have?
• Are you building hard skills in things like Microsoft Excel, Tableau, STATA, R, ArcGIS, etc.?

In my opinion, if you're not doing all of the above, then you're not playing the internship game properly. I say this as someone who just completed their Master's at SAIS and has 10+ years of professional work experience. I also secured several competitive internships while at school.

So take a step back, breathe, and think about what you want to accomplish. See what skills they need and go out and spend the semester obtaining them. Go to your career center and get feedback on your resume and cover letters. Learn how to massage your prior work experience into meeting the requirements of each internship application.

I sincerely believe you can do this. 90% of it is just thinking three or four steps ahead, networking, and presenting yourself professionally.