Political Science

Experience all that our nation’s capital has to offer!

The UMaine Washington Semester & Congressional Internship Program, co-sponsored by the William S. Cohen Institute for Leadership & Public Service, provides an opportunity for up to ten students to live and work in Washington D.C. during the spring semester each year. This program, founded in 1958 as the Congressional Internship Program, has served as a launching pad for hundreds of UMaine alumni in establishing highly successful careers in politics, public policy, government service, law, business, the military, and numerous other fields. Nearly every student participating in this program cites it is as the most impactful semester of their undergraduate experience.

What does this program entail?

Students work full time in a host office in places such as Congress, executive branch departments/agencies, lobbying firms, think tanks, trade associations, non-governmental organizations, non-profits, and international affairs organizations. 

In addition, students participate in a bi-weekly, evening seminar (led by Prof. Richard Powell) that includes compelling guest speakers, academic assignments that link political science to practical politics, and professional development training.

Students earn 12 credits (enrolled as full time status) for successful completion of the program. Occasionally, students wishing to earn additional credits may opt to take a UMaine online course in addition to participation in the program (optional).

Is this expensive? Where do students live?

Through the generosity of financial gifts made to support our student interns by Clement ’64 and Linda McGillicuddy, Peter Madigan ’81, and numerous alumni of the program, we make this experience accessible to students at a cost that is comparable to that of being enrolled on campus in Orono. Students are responsible for paying their tuition, just as they would on campus, plus housing costs that are the same as living in a UMaine residence hall. Tuition and housing are billed directly to students’ UMaine accounts. Normally, students find their financial aid applies in the same way that it would on campus, although we certainly ask students to work with the Office of Student Financial Aid to discuss the details of their own circumstances.

Program participants are required to live in housing leased by UMaine at a location conveniently located near Capitol Hill and most other internship placements. Most interns will have a short commute to work by foot or public transportation. Our building is typically shared with students from other major U.S. colleges and universities. This permits our students to live with UMaine students and also get to know students from elsewhere. Students are responsible for paying a modest security deposit directly to the housing provider. Of course, students are responsible for complying with the terms of the lease and could incur penalties for any property damage, just as they would in on-campus residence halls. 

Food and meals are not included, but most internship placements are paid positions, so students will usually have work income that offsets the costs of living expenses such as food, transportation, and incidentals. Our housing comes supplied with a food storage and preparation area (fridge, stove), as well as basic cooking utensils (pots, pans, etc). Students are expected to independently manage their own shopping, cooking, transportation and other essentials of living independently in an urban environment.

What is the application process? Who can apply?

The application process begins in the early part of the fall semester. Students complete an online application that is typically due in early October. After an initial review of applications, students may then be asked to participate in an interview with the selection committee. The program is open to matriculated UMaine students from any major, although a demonstrated interest in politics, public policy, leadership, and/or international affairs is often helpful. Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors may apply, with some preference normally given to Juniors and Seniors.

What can I do to strengthen my chances of being selected for the program?

There is no specific GPA requirement. As with any competitive program, a review of the student’s academic record is an important part of the process, but it is by no means the only thing considered. Applicants should be able to clearly articulate their reasons for wanting to participate in the program and explain how that relates to their past experiences and future career goals. It is very helpful to have a demonstrated interest in politics, public policy, leadership, and/or international affairs through academic and/or extracurricular experiences. We will also assess applicants’ demonstrated experience and skills that are relevant to working successfully in a professional office environment, such as oral and written communications skills, work ethic, and reliability.

Students interested in this program are urged to consider applying for the UMaine Cohen Institute’s Washington D.C. Travel Course in a prior year. This week-long course, usually offered in May Term, provides an outstanding foundation of experience that is directly relevant to the Washington Semester & Congressional Internship Program. 

How do I get an internship placement?

In some instances, we will directly nominate students to host offices with whom we have an established relationship. Those offices would then do their own review of the nominee’s application and make the final hiring decision. 

In other circumstances, once students are selected for the program, they will work closely with Prof. Powell to identify and apply for internships in an office relevant to their interests. The application process for spring internships in Washington D.C. often stretches into November. We have a wealth of knowledge to share with students about internship possibilities and our alumni often play an important role in assisting with the placement process. Ultimately, it is each student’s responsibility to secure an internship, but we are able to provide substantial support in this process. 

Who can I contact with questions?

If you have additional questions about the Washington Semester & Congressional Internship Program, please contact the program director, Prof. Richard Powell (rpowell@maine) or the Department of Political Science in 229 Boudreau Hall.

For alumni of the program: we maintain a private Facebook group for all alumni of the UMaine Washington Semester & Congressional Internship Program. Former interns are encouraged to join HERE.

• Internship Alumni 1958-1968 (Dr. Edward Dow & Dr. Eugene Mawhinney)
• Internship Alumni 1969-2001 (Dr. Kenneth Palmer)
• Internship Alumni 2002-Present (Dr. Richard Powell)