Capitol Immersion Program
Join our 4-day program for HBCU, PBI and other MSI students to build skills and networks that fuel careers of influence on and around Capitol Hill.
Are you an emerging talent with a passion to build a career in advocacy and action? There is no better way to start networking and developing valuable skills than in TWC’s Capitol Immersion Program, scheduled for March 17-20, 2024.
In the Heart of Washington, D.C.
Capitol Hill is the center of power and influence for our nation and our globe. Tens of thousands of individuals conduct business in a wide range of jobs, career paths and interests, shaping policy decisions that guide all aspects of our lives and inform the future of our world.
The Capitol Immersion Program by The Washington Center is designed to empower students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) and other Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) to pursue career paths that lead to influential positions. It is a unique opportunity for students to pave their way towards jobs that not only benefit their individual futures but also contribute towards making the world a better place.
Held March 17-20, 2024, in the heart of Washington, D.C., participants will gain visibility into the diverse jobs and careers connected to Capitol Hill, such as:
- Elected Office and Legislative Staffing
- Lobbying and Issues Advocacy
- Think Tanks, Non-Profit and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs)
- Federal Government Agency Careers
- Journalism and Media
Immersive, skills-focused and career-relevant curriculum, along with networking opportunities with leaders in politics, policy and influence, will help participants bridge the skills gap and open doors. These professional skills – like communication, critical thinking, adaptability, negotiation and more – are key to success in this fast-paced world and the program will help advance your knowledge.
Apply today and align your passion for change with the skills employers expect and connections that will unlock countless opportunities for success.
An Opportunity for HBCU, PBI & MSI Students
Students of color make up over 40% of the U.S. population but are represented by just over 18% of top congressional staffers. To help build representation and equity in these important professional roles, the Capitol Immersion Program will prioritize students currently enrolled at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) and other Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs).
Housing and Living
During the Capitol Immersion Program, you’ll stay in TWC’s furnished intern housing in the NoMa neighborhood of Washington, D.C. This cosmopolitan neighborhood is located adjacent to Capitol Hill and full of unique restaurants and nightlife.
You’ll be within walking distance of the Capitol Building, National Mall and the best that D.C. has to offer (not to mention essentials like grocery stores and the Metro). TWC’s housing is accessible via public transportation, including Amtrak/MARC/VRE/Bus via Union Station. Parking is NOT available on site; however, nearby options (additional cost) are available.
Housing
Most participants share a 2-bedroom/2-bath apartment with three other participants in our modern academic and residential building. We'll provide everything you need, most of what you'll want and even some perks you might not have expected.
Each apartment is fully furnished and includes:
- a full dining set (pots, pans, dishes, silverware, coffee maker and toaster)
- refrigerator
- microwave
- dishwasher
- iron and ironing board
- vacuum cleaner
- mop and broom
- washer and dryer
- wi-fi
What to Pack
Please be prepared to pack the following:
- bed linens (twin XL sheets)
- bath towels
- blanket
- pillow
- personal toiletries
- government-issued ID card
- small folding umbrella
- business casual or smart casual attire for academic sessions and site visits
- casual attire for evenings and weekends
- laptop (optional)
- notebook and pens
- clothes hangers
Housing Services
Our housing is managed by a dedicated housing services team to ensure you have everything you need to live comfortably.
We want every student to be able to maximize their experience, so we offer reasonable accommodations to students with documented disabilities. TWC's housing is ADA accessible, and wheelchair accessible apartments are available to participants who need them. We also allow documented service animals and emotional support animals.
Eligibility
To be eligible to participate in this program, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Attend an accredited Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCUs), Predominantly Black Institution (PBIs) or other Minority Serving Institution (MSIs).
- If accepted, commit to attending and fully participating in the Capitol Immersion Program in Washington, D.C. from March 17-20, 2024.
- If accepted, commit to upholding TWC’s Seminar and Short-Term Policies (including the Student Code of Conduct) before and during the program experience.
Program Cost
The cost of this seminar is $1,595 which includes housing. To learn more about scholarships for select students, please see below.
Scholarship Opportunities Available
In-state (resident) students attending universities in Maryland may be eligible to receive a scholarship to cover the cost of the program, student housing at TWC’s Residential & Academic Facility, and a food/travel stipend.
To receive a scholarship, accepted students who meet the requirements must commit to attending and fully participating in the Capitol Immersion Program in Washington, D.C. from March 17-20, 2024.
Dates and Deadlines
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2024
- Check-In: Sunday, March 17, 2024
- Check-Out: Wednesday, March 20, 2024
How to Apply
The application period for the 2024 Capitol Immersion Program is now closed.
We offer many other immersive learning programs to build skills and networks for careers. Please visit https://twc.edu/find-program to learn more.
Application Documents
Below are the documents you’ll need to submit with your application. Please note that your documents must be saved as PDFs in order to upload them
- Statement of Interest: In 100-250 words, tell us what makes you an ideal fit for this program, share your goals for the experience, and tell us why receiving a scholarship to fund your participation would make a difference for you.
- One-page Resumé: Share a current copy of your resume. If you're creating one for the first time, include your educational background and other experiences (internships, volunteer work, on-campus leadership positions, honors, or awards). See our resume guide and sample resumes for more details.
- Transcript: Upload your transcript from your current college/university directly into the application. We accept both unofficial and official transcripts! If you have attended multiple institutions, send transcripts for additional schools to info@twc.edu. Please ensure your transcript is organized by semester and includes your name, cumulative GPA and the name of your school. If your social security number is included on your transcript, please conceal it prior to upload.