Supporting Washington Program
The UC Davis Washington Program offers undergraduate students an exciting opportunity to combine course work, research, and unparalleled internship experience during a quarter's residence in our nation's capital. Students from any major have the opportunity to gain valuable on-the-job experience with professionals and experts in fields that interest them. This experience goes beyond internships to give students the professional development, connections and guidance they need to pursue a fulfilling career. Our success, and the success of the thousands of students we serve, rely on the gifts of like-minded partners that share our vision to strengthen the workforce pipeline by shaping students into engaged, effective leaders who are skilled in their professions and committed to civic engagement. We depend on your support to make the Washington Program an affordable option for all students.
Learn more about how you can support this effort.
Scholarships Support Stellar Students
The Washington Program’s mission is to provide the highest quality experiential learning program for UC Davis undergraduates by offering professional development and internship opportunities that help inform students' transition from study to professional practice.
UC Davis students are strongly encouraged to supplement their undergraduate education with real-world, hands-on experiences through internships. The Washington Program offers eligible undergraduate students an exciting opportunity to combine course work, exciting field research and unparalleled internship experience during a quarter's residence in our nation's capital. Students from any major have the opportunity to gain valuable on-the-job experience with professionals and experts in fields that interest them. From NASA, to the Nation Institutes of Health, to the Smithsonian, to the Capitol, students have the chance to test-drive a career, build their portfolio or resume, and make valuable industry contacts that can be essential to landing the ideal job upon graduation. In today’s competitive job market, it's what you know and who you know that often makes the difference.
Ellie's Washington Program Experience
Following in her family’s footsteps, there was no doubt in her mind that Ellie wanted to go to Washington D.C. After watching her older sister go through the UCDC program at UC Berkeley, Ellie was excited to apply for the Washington Program when she came to UC Davis and knew it would be an amazing chance to get work experience and live in a new city while in college.
Learn more about how you can support Washington Program's fund.
Claudia's Washington Program Experience
An internship in Washington DC can mean finding yourself in some surprising and cool locations. Some interns are sent to Congressional meetings, some to last-minute protests on Capitol Hill, and others end up all the way in Puerto Rico! At least, that was the experience of Claudia Gutierrez, a participant in our Winter 2020 Cohort. Set up by the nonprofit where she interned, Claudia was part of a relief effort that aided Puerto Ricans affected by the recent earthquakes.
Learn more about how you can support Washington Program's fund.
Elise's Washington Program Experience
I believe this is what makes the Washington Program so special. The ability to give students an amazing opportunity and a professional growth experience unlike any other. Students like Elise are able to discover themselves while exploring a city rich with history, opportunity, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Elise was inspired by her time in Washington DC and now has a clear path for her life after she graduates from UC Davis. The excitement and wonderment she felt for DC is still with her and she can’t wait until she is able to go back.