Being a Washington, D.C., intern during an election season is incredibly exciting. You’re at the heart of the action witnessing firsthand how political campaigns and government operations intersect. The energy in the city is palpable, with candidates, media and voters all engaged in the political process. It’s an experience that easily becomes the highlight of a student’s college career.

“An internship in Washington, D.C., was one of the best experiences of my life,” Mason Mehr a communications major at the U. “I got incredible hands-on work experience, I made invaluable networking connections and I got to experience living in a city that I would have never gotten to experience otherwise. My time as an intern made me feel more prepared for post-graduation life, and it helped me gain a deeper appreciation for my education journey.”

Started in 1965, the Washington, D.C., intern program is the University of Utah’s oldest intern program at the Hinckley Institute. Each semester, students of any major can enjoy substantial scholarship support while they live in the nation’s thriving capital city, working as interns with a variety of government institutions, advocacy groups and media or consulting firms.

“For my final semester at the U, I decided to complete a Hinckley internship in Washington, D.C.,” said Claudia Gonzalez, who graduated with a marketing degree in 2019. “This was one of the best experiences of my entire college career. I had the opportunity to work with an incredibly diverse and professional staff, participate in conferences, and immerse myself in meaningful discussions. Because of this internship, I was able to grow, not only as a student but as a member of our national and local community.”

As an intern, you might find yourself working on a range of tasks—from helping with campaign events and managing communications to analyzing data and supporting policy initiatives. You also get to see the behind-the-scenes workings of politics and gain valuable insights into how decisions are made. Plus, there are often networking opportunities with influential figures, which can be invaluable for your future career. The fast-paced environment and the chance to be involved in shaping public policy and opinion across a broad range of fields make it a thrilling experience.

Learn more about Washington, D.C., internships at  hinckley.utah.edu/dc.