Córdova & Fernós Internship Program
Helping young Puerto Rican leaders shape a stronger future for the Island.
As a Puerto Rican college student, you have a tremendous opportunity to help lead your government to a stronger future. Work closely with your peers in the United States Congress, Federal Agencies and non-governmental organizations in Washington, D.C. as part of an immersive program that’s tailored to you and your goals.
For 30-years, the Office of Legislative Services of Puerto Rico and The Washington Center have delivered this program which allows student interns to see first-hand the complex issues facing today’s policy decision makers.
Eligibility
This is a highly selective program. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Be a student at the undergraduate or post-graduate level enrolled in a university in Puerto Rico with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.00.
- Have a minimum of fifty (50) credits approved or in process of approval with certification form the registrar's office upon applying to the internship.
- Have good command of the English language both verbally and in writing.
- Be enrolled as a full-time student when applying to the program.
- If selected, participate in a formal interview in English with the Program selection evaluation committee and members of the Joint Commission of the Córdova & Fernós Program.
Program Components
During this program, you'll intern full-time in an internship related to your interests with a supervisor who cares about your growth and success. Throughout the week, you'll attend TWC programming where you'll engage in workshops, one-on-one advising, networking events and an evening academic course designed to maximize your internship experience.
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Program Cost
This is a fully funded internship program which covers the cost of the program, round-trip airfare, transportation to and from the airport, housing and a bi-weekly stipend.
Housing and Living
The community you become a part of is one the best things about The Washington Center. You never know what will spark a conversation that turns a roommate from halfway around the globe to a lifelong friend. You might come for an internship, but you’ll be amazed by what you can learn from a late night burger run.
We don't like to brag, but our neighborhood, NoMa, is one of the coolest and 'most connected' neighborhoods in D.C. You'll be in the middle of it all with easy access wherever you need to go.
Want to learn all about TWC housing, the community and the neighborhood? Check out our Housing page below.
Housing
Most student interns share a 2-bedroom/2-bath apartment with three other students 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 (like tips on where to find that burger at 2am).
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:
- linens including twin-sized sheets, towels, a blanket/comforter and pillows
- personal toiletries
- government-issued ID card
- at least three business professional outfits
- notebook and pens
- clothes hangers
Once you’ve arrived we recommend you purchase these additional items:
- cleaning supplies
- dishwasher and laundry detergent
- toilet paper and paper towels
- groceries
Due to limited storage we cannot accept packages in advance of your check-in date.
Housing Services
We give you your space, but we don't leave you totally on your own. Our housing services team and alumni mentors make sure you have the support you need, any time day or night. And our disability services staff ensures that every student has the tools they need to live comfortably, complete assignments and succeed in their work.
Academic Credit
You may be eligible to receive academic credit for your participation in this program. However, credits are determined and awarded by each university. TWC does not grant credit. You are responsible for arranging any academic credit through your college or university. You should discuss arrangements with you institution, prior to starting the program.
Dates and Deadlines
| Check-In | Internship Begins | Internship Ends | Check-Out | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2024 | August 28 | September 3 | December 6 | December 7 |
Application deadlines are determined through the Córdova & Fernós Program.
How to Apply
Applications for this program go through the Joint Commission of the Córdova & Fernós Program. For information about the selection process for this program, please contact cordovafernos@oslpr.org or visit https://www.oslpr.org/cordova-y-fernos.
Application Documents
You need to submit the following documents along with your application:
- Original Birth Certificate
- Certificate of Negative Criminal Record
- Resumé in english
- Official Transcript
- Two Letters of Recommendation: One of these letters must be of an academic nature, such as a university professor. The other may be of a professional, personal or academic nature
- Certification of English Proficiency: Letter from an English teacher or the Director of the English Department of your faculty, certifying your verbal and written ability of the English language
- Academic Advisor Letter: must indicate the amount of credit that will be granted
- Evidence of leadership, social service, or both. The evidence must be presented in writing, either by means of a certification or letter from the organization that provides it.
- Written Essay in english (500 words, double-spaced on 8.5" x 11" white paper): focus on "How the Córdova and Fernós Internship will help you personally and professionally in relation to your area of studies."
- Written Essay in english (75 words, double-spaced on 8.5" x 11" paper): describe where you would like to work and why? Mention activities you would like to participate in during the internship
- Two (2) color photos (2"x2"): write name and surnames on the back
Policies
You can view TWC's Internship Policies here, which includes information on student conduct, billing, grades, and much more. All students will be expected to follow these policies so we encourage you to review them.