Enhance your summer internship in Washington, D.C.
The Eisenhower Institute’s Washington Summer Fellowship is an intensive 10-week residential experience that prepares students for leadership and service in the tradition of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. This program provides a select number of motivated students who secure internships in the Washington, D.C., area an opportunity to also learn about important policy issues and how government operates while working in the nation’s capital. Through weekly seminars and field visits, participants gain a deep understanding of the institutions and relationships that impact how decisions are made. Students also receive personalized career coaching to develop a roadmap for success. Housing is provided through the Lutheran College Washington Semester.
The Fellowship Experience
- Seminars: In evening sessions once a week, students meet with experts to discuss major policy areas such as the economy, foreign policy, defense, trade, labor, national security, technology, crime, health care, civil rights, education and racial and social issues. Seminars also address key Eisenhower principles of leadership and service.
- Field Visits: On alternate Saturdays, students visit D.C. destinations with academic, historical, or cultural significance, such as museums, historic sites, communities and other notable locations. These tours expose students to the flavor of the nation’s capital, giving them an opportunity to experience what the city has to offer.
- Career Guidance: The Eisenhower Institute is partnering with the Center for Career Engagement and professional mentors to help students make the most of their internship experience.
- Housing: Accepted fellows are placed in residential housing for the 10-week fellowship period. Housing is provided by the Lutheran College Washington Semester in Rosslyn, VA. Visit their website for more information on accommodations.
Internships
Internship placement is a collaborative process. The Eisenhower Institute will use our network of professional and alumni connections to assist accepted fellows with identifying opportunities based on career interests. Students are responsible for completing and submitting applications. Institute staff will provide guidance and personalized interview preparation. Students needing help with cover letters and resumes should contact the Center for Career Engagement.
Students accepted into the Washington Summer Fellowship are responsible for independently securing a summer internship based in the Washington, D.C., area. Students may apply for the fellowship prior to obtaining an internship; however, confirmation of acceptance into an internship program must be provided to the Eisenhower Institute no later than April 26. Students must have an internship to participate.
'22-'23 Summer Fellows Employers
- Friendship Place
- National Parent Teacher Association
- Beacon Global Strategies LLC
- Cheniere Energy, Inc.
- CASA Virginia
- Learning Life
- Middle East Institute
- Freedom House
- Lockton Insurance Co.
- Becky's Fund
- George Mason Public Leadership Academy
- United States House of Representatives, Congressman Raul Ruiz (CA-25)
- Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
- Viatris, Inc.
- Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy
- Baltimore-Washington Financial Advisors
- Voice of America
- Velocity Government Relations
- National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations
- Lutheran College Washington Semester
Eligibility and Dates
Current Gettysburg College first-years, sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible to apply. For Summer 2024, applications open November 13 and close December 3. Decisions will be announced by December 18. The fellowship runs May 27-August 2.
Cost
Students who are accepted into the program will confirm their participation by submitting a $300 refundable application and damage deposit to LCWS by April 30. Your application and damage deposit is held throughout your stay and completely refundable, pending the condition of your condo upon move out.
The Eisenhower Institute is committed to equitable opportunities for all students. Applicants who face financial hardships providing required deposits should contact the Institute to discuss options.
Expectations
Fellows are expected to attend all seminars, tours, and career coaching sessions. Absences aside from emergencies must be requested and approved at least 3 days in advance. Students who do not meet this expectation will be required to reimburse the Eisenhower Institute for the cost of their housing.
Questions
Please contact ei@gettysburg.edu or 202-628-4444 with questions.