DC think tank pre-reqs: working my way up?

<p>I'm interested in eventually doing an internship at some important, high-profile public policy think tank in Washington DC, but I know I'll have to gain some relevant experience to give me a shot at such a competitive job. What lower-level, less prestigious positions should I look for before I can consider some of the more high-profile positions in DC? I've been considering the following:</p>

<p>state government agencies (attorney general, dept. of education, etc.)</p>

<p>public policy think tank at my state capitol (only think tank in our state)</p>

<p>something in my congressman/senator's office (too competitive?)</p>

<p>And does anybody know about university-based think tanks outside of DC that might fulfill a similar purpose? I know Rice has the Baker Institute, but I can't find any info. about internships on their website. And then there's Hoover at Stanford but that's probably on par with Cato, AEI, etc.</p>

<p>I would really appreciate any information/advice you can offer. Thanks!</p>

<p>bump, im interested in defense think tanks.</p>