The Capitol Hill Internship Program (CHIP) connects Nebraska Wesleyan students to exciting internships only found in Washington, D.C.
CHIP students have a unique opportunity to intern at government agencies, nonprofit organizations, associations, lobbying firms, private corporations and in legislative, executive and judicial branches.
But securing the right internship can be a challenge. As you explore internships that match your interests and skills, the CHIP director may help you:
A CHIP internship is an intensive learning experience. The 15-week program features a 32-hour workweek combined with an academic curriculum that enhances your Capitol Hill experience.
Internship: 9 credit hours
You’ll establish learning goals with your supervisor at the beginning of your internship. You’ll track your progress in a weekly journal. At the end of your internship, you will submit a detailed report analyzing your experience.
Seminar: 3 credit hours
Your internship seminar meets weekly to discuss current issues in Washington, D.C., with experts in various fields. You’ll explore a wide range of issues, organizations and career paths.
Coursework: 3 credit hours
You’ll choose one of three courses taught at the CHIP House. Past courses have included topics on lobbying, Middle East politics, communications and culture.
CHIP interns live in a red-brick, three-story townhouse in the heart of D.C. The CHIP House is walking distance from the Capitol, House and Senate offices, the Smithsonian, Union Station and Capitol South Metro stops, as well as countless restaurants, shops and markets.
Interns enjoy a fully furnished living space with leisure seating, TVs, dressers, paid utilities, basic cable and WiFi. The CHIP House provides linens, household goods, dishes and cookware as well as onsite laundry and a cleaning service for common areas.
CHIP participants must:
To apply for the program, email your completed CHIP Application to Zachary Baumann at zbaumann [at] nebrwesleyan.edu (zbaumann[at]nebrwesleyan[dot]edu).
Include with your application:
After you submit your application, you’ll be contacted to schedule an interview with the CHIP review panel.
The application deadline for the fall semester is March 15.
The application deadline for the spring semester is October 1.
Find more information on the CHIP website.
Or contact NWU’s CHIP coordinator, Assistant Professor of Political Science Zachary Baumann at zbaumann [at] nebrwesleyan.edu (zbaumann[at]nebrwesleyan[dot]edu).
As members of the Nebraska Wesleyan University Men’s Soccer team, Zach Weis (’25) and Chance Hergott (’25) have spent hours on the pitch. This semester they traded cleats and uniforms for suits and ties as interns in our nation’s capital.
Samantha Mareno's ('18) internship with the Peace Corps in Washington D.C. led to an exciting position with the organization in Fiji. What unique experiences are waiting for you?