Capitol Hill Internship Program

This program was developed to help students find and complete internships on Capitol Hill by providing a stipend to assist with living costs, as well as support in finding and applying to internship opportunities.

Applications are currently closed. If you would like to be put on the waitlist, contact Erin Waddell at ewaddell@wcu.edu.

Internships are a Key Experience for Students.

Internships are a primary experience employers look for on a resume, according to a survey of employers from the Chronicle of Higher Education. In fact, a study conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers listed internships as one of the top two indicators of success in initial career outcomes for graduating seniors. Internships provide a great opportunity for hands-on work experience, career exploration, networking, and professional growth.

Receive Financial Support for Your Internship

Unfortunately, many great internship opportunities are unpaid, creating a barrier for many of our students, and due to the prohibitive cost of housing, food, and transportation in DC some students cannot afford such an experience.

The Capitol Hill Intership Program was intentionally designed to provide students with much-needed financial support to assist them with gaining invaluable experience that they might otherwise not have been able to obtain.

Potential Participants in this Program Must:

• Attend an information session, which discusses the benefits of interning on Capitol Hill, resume, cover letter, and interviewing best practices, and key information about the program
• Complete an application form (includes resume, faculty recommendation, proof of application to internship)
• Proof of acceptance to internship (letter or e-mail from representative's office indicating acceptance, start date and end date of internship)
• Attendance of student orientation session
• Complete all required paperwork (award acceptance form, W-9)

Selected participants will also complete the following:

• Final reflection
• Final evaluation from the internship supervisor

What Students are Saying

“I would like to thank Western Carolina University for the stipend they provided. DC is an extremely expensive place so these extra funds went a long way in assisting me with financial needs. This internship confirmed my career path in many ways.” - Coleman Leopard

“My internship was great, I had a wonderful experience, I met amazing people, and I learned a lot about American politics…overall, I’m so thankful for this opportunity.” - Katie Gunn

“If I could do the entire thing over again, I would. Without hesitation. Being able to work in Washington D.C. was amazing. I learned so much in a short time and met so many great people. I made connections that I will be able to utilize in the future as I come out of college.” - Cameron Alexander

Learn More About the Program

For further information, questions, or to talk to someone about how to apply for the Capitol Hill Internship Program, please reach out to the Center for Career & Professional Development at 828.227.7133 or careerservices@wcu.edu.