Why Choose The Washington Center?

As a Washington Center faculty leader and an associate professor of political science, I am committed to exposing my students to experiential learning opportunities in government so that they can gain a more in-depth understanding of the political process. I believe that it is essential that students are exposed to politics and participate in experiential programs, as it adds to their knowledge of the subject matter and allows for meaningful dialogue in class discussions.

Impact of Faculty Leaders

As a part of TWC's Leadership Forum, spring interns had an opportunity to hear from a panel of recruiting experts at this semester's Career Boot Camp, held at the National Association of Home Builders during the second week of their program. Panelists answered questions submitted by TWC interns on topics such as job search and networking tips, resume, cover letter and interview best practices, and advice for those considering graduate school.

During TWC's Inauguration Academic Seminar, faculty leaders play a large part in guiding and mentoring groups of students from all over the country during their experience in Washington, D.C. Ashley Pinney, faculty leader of Elon University's international fellows, reflects on her experience:

TWC welcomed over 400 new spring interns during an orientation ceremony held at the Blinken Auditorium. The newest group of students represent a total of 164 colleges and universities worldwide, traveling from over 35 U.S. states, including Puerto Rico, and 14 countries including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Mexico, Pakistan, South Korea, Taiwan, Turkey, United Kingdom.

For over 400 students from 45 universities across the country and world, being in Washington, D.C. for the 57th Presidential Inauguration was a historic and exciting opportunity. These students, who arrived early to D.C., participated in a 10-day academic seminar running from January 12-22nd. Students kicked off the program with a tour of the city, where they had the opportunity to see monuments, museums and learn about the city’s rich history. Starting off the week with a historic tour allowed students to get acquainted with the nation's capital.

Students from Francis Marion University met with Congressman Tom Rice of South Carolina. After his staff treated the group to pitchers of southern sweet tea, Inauguration academic seminar attendees met the Congressman outside the floor of the House, where he shared career advice and his past professional experience leading up to his current position serving in Congress.

The Washington Center’s Office of Internship Site Relations (OISR) hosted a Supervisors’ Workshop and Networking Reception on January 24th, 2013. Over 20 TWC intern supervisors represented their companies and organizations at the event, sharing best practices on growing and developing their interns.