The Washington Academic Internship Program is an enriching and exciting opportunity that allows Ohio State students to spend a quarter in Washington D.C. as John Glenn Fellows. While in D.C., students work four full days each week in field placements that match their academic and professional interests. Students also participate in a research seminar and enroll in a course on policymaking and public service in the Washington community.
Who can participate in the Washington Academic Internship Program?
Ohio State juniors and seniors of ANY MAJOR are eligible to apply for the program. We encourage all students with an interest in public policy, service, and research to apply.
So I don’t have to be a public affairs major to benefit from this program?
No. We have had over 300 students representing over 65 academic disciplines participate in the program. Because students will work at internship sites based on their area of study, the experience will be beneficial no matter what major they come from. Credits earned from the program can, in many cases, be applied to a major or minor (See Academics for more details).
When is the program offered?
The program is offered during the Autumn, Winter, Spring and Summer quarters of every school year. Beginning in August, 2012, the program will be offered during Autumn, Spring, and Summer semesters.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is generally three weeks into the term prior to the one for which you are applying.
Housing
Where will I be living during my stay in Washington, DC?Glenn Fellows reside in the Congressional apartment building, located just two blocks from the Supreme Court in an historic neighborhood on Capitol Hill. Students will live in fully furnished 2 and 4 bedroom apartments, which include bunked beds, desks, kitchen table, sofa and chairs, TV, microwave, refrigerator, iron and ironing board, full-service kitchen, and bathroom. All apartments are equipped with cable, wireless internet, and air conditioning. There is controlled access to the building for heightened security, in addition to a building manager who stays on sight and ensures the building remains in excellent condition. Laundry facilitates are available in the building, and there is ample classroom space for students to study away from their rooms. The Congressional is located at: 215 Constitution Avenue, N.E. Washington, DC 20002. For more information, please visit: thecongressional.com or Washington Intern Student Housing.
Cost
How much does the program cost?While in DC, John Glenn Fellows remain fully registered Ohio State students and pay standard Ohio State tuition. Students are also responsible for paying the housing costs of $3,400 per quarter ($3,900 per semester), plus a $200 refundable security deposit.
Are financial aid and scholarships are available?
Students who receive financial aid continue to do so while participating in the program. Appropriate adjustments are made to compensate for the increased cost of living in Washington. The John Glenn School of Public Affairs is also proud to offer scholarships to students based on financial need, academic achievement, and other merits.
I would love to go, but I really don’t think I can afford it. What are my options?
We are committed to making every effort to ensure that no student will be denied the opportunity to participate due to financial constraints. If you feel that this is a problem for you, we urge you to set up an appointment to discuss the matter with us.
Internships
Do I have to get my own internship?
No, you are not required to set up your own internship site. Our staff is highly experienced at placing students at high quality internship sites. Everyone who is accepted into the program is guaranteed placement at an internship site. However, we encourage students to take the initiative to research potential internship sites on their own.
So, if I don’t have to get my own internship, what is my role in the process?
While you are not required to make contact with any internship sites, the more you can do the better. Part of our application process is the listing of three possible internship sites at which you would be interested in working. The more detailed information you can provide for us on your policy interests and possible sites, the better we will be able to place you at a site that aligns with your skills and interests. We ask that students keep in close contact with us regarding possible internship sites and what they have done to contact them. For some government agencies, an extensive background check is required before starting an internship. In these cases, students should be prepared to contact such agencies well ahead time so that the background check will be completed by the time they plan to start their internship.
