Intern in DC through the Washington Semester Program
The Capitol Building framed by fall foliage
Source: Sasha Tuddenham '24
Megan Griffin ‘23 spent the fall semester of her senior year networking her way through Washington DC. She attended classes at American University while interning at the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) three days each week, leaving her with connections she can return to after she graduates.
Marist is partnered with American University’s internship program to allow Marist students to gain practical experience through internships in anything from speech writing to business. When Griffin discovered she could go to DC and transfer her credits to count for her political science degree, she jumped at the opportunity.
“It has really helped me become more confident in myself and allowed me to network in DC, which will be very useful following my graduation,” she said.
WSP partnered with Marist 36 years ago. It was initially headed by Dr. Myers, a professor in the political science department who focuses on public administration. However, in 2016, it was taken on by Dr. Gaeke, political science professor and the head of the Center for Civic Engagement and Leadership. Since Gaeke took over the partnership, 34 students have seeked out the program.
“I want students to discover that whatever their interests are, it can be done in the public sector,” Gaeke said. “We need people who care. We need people of all varieties who see the public sector as viable, meaningful and important.”
Students studying criminal justice, social work, communications, global business and political science have all taken advantage of the opportunities in DC. Internships varied from working in Jill Biden’s office to writing press releases for a member of Congress.
Students intern three days out of the week and take two classes, earning a total of 12 credits. Class topics vary each semester, but have covered American political transitions or business during a global pandemic. Students receive an unlimited metro pass for the semester to get to and from work or classes. Students are provided resources and contacts at internship locations, but students are responsible for securing their own internship.
Students do not need previous internship experience, but a willingness to ask questions when something goes awry. Classes are held all over the city at museums, think tanks, or nonprofits to increase networking opportunities, but it requires initiative to ensure timely arrivals and professionalism.
Gaeke remembers one student who dreamed of working in the financial office of the Republican National Committee and spent the weeks leading up to WSP connecting with full-time employees until she found someone who helped her apply for an internship. That internship later turned into her first job following graduation.
Griffin attended a conference during her time at LSC at which she found her current internship. She plans to return to DC soon after she graduates to begin working in the legal field with a focus on women’s rights. Now back in Poughkeepsie, Griffin hopes other students take advantage of the opportunity to intern in DC.
“I think every student should participate in a program like this,” she said, “but students that are outgoing and really take advantage of the networking opportunities that the program offers you will excel.”