Leadership + the American Presidency students pose outside the White House.

Leadership + the American Presidency

Academic Internship Program Sponsored by The Fund for American Studies

Summer 2023: June 3 – July 28

Why Leadership + the American Presidency?

If you are looking to explore your personal leadership journey through the lens of the American presidency, this is the ideal TFAS program track for you.

Students seeking to grow as civic-minded leaders and exploring careers in public service, policy, politics or the nonprofit sector will gain the professional experience needed to break into these competitive fields.

What Makes this Program Track Unique? 
  • An internship placement in the fields of public policy, the nonprofit sector or media (NGO, policy group, think tank, communications firm, Congressional office.)
  • Coursework  in government and economics designed to complement your real-world experience
  • Guest lectures featuring prominent policy and economics experts
  • Experiential learning opportunities at places such as Mount Vernon, Ford’s Theater, White House and the Holocaust Museum.
  • This program track in sponsored in conjunction with the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute.

It’s much more than just coursework and an internship placement. The contacts you’ll make throughout the summer will be invaluable in finding that first job out of college.

The Comprehensive Package Includes
  • Roommate matching with other program students based upon compatibility criteria.
  • Easy access to the safe and affordable Metro train and bus system.
  • Full access to campus resources, including libraries, computer labs and much more.
  • Comprehensive orientation to the program, campus and the city upon your arrival.
  • Dedicated program staff members who are available to communicate with you about your internship placement, financial aid and general questions in the months leading up to the program.
  • Continued staff support while you are in Washington to ensure that you have an amazing experience. In addition to the full time, year-round program staff who will get to know you and help you throughout the summer, there will be alumni living in housing and serving as Program Advisors.
  • Site briefings at institutions such as the Department of State, Capitol Hill, International Republican Institute and the White House.
  • Professional development seminars on topics including job searching, public speaking and networking.
  • A mentor program where you are matched with a DC professional working in politics, government, policy research, or the non-governmental sector.
  • Planned social events where you can connect with almost 350 other student leaders participating in TFAS programs. These events may include: a trip to a Nationals baseball game, a student BBQ, volunteer projects, canoeing on the Potomac and a trip to Mt. Vernon.
  • An active network of more than 18,000 alumni worldwide to join upon the completion of the program.

“The Fund for American Studies offers a program that guarantees an incredible D.C. experience. The program is unmatched in potential opportunities, connections, and enriching events. Invest in the program and you will be given a lifelong team in your corner.”

Lance Bean, Rutgers University
Intern, Hohlt Group
Apply Now

Sample Schedule

Students should plan to arrive on Saturday, June 3 and will be allowed to check into their on-campus apartments between 10:00am – 2:00pm. Orientation activities will be planned for that evening and during the next few days. Students will be required to move out of the apartments on Friday, July 28 by 11:00am. Further details on arrival logistics, registration and orientation will be provided as the summer approaches.

This schedule is only meant to give an idea of the summer’s general structure. It is subject to change according to events and briefings. You will receive updated weekly calendars in class and by e-mail throughout the summer.

Mon
9:00AM – 5:00PMInternships
6:00PM – 7:30PMElective Courses (optional)
Tues
9:00AM – 3:00PMInternships
4:30PM – 7:00PMThe American Presidency (GOVT 308)
7:30PM – 8:30PMGuest Lectures
Wed
9:00AM – 5:00PMInternships
Thurs
9:00AM – 5:00PMInternships
6:00PM – 7:30PMElective Courses (optional)
Fri
9:00AM – 11:30AMThe American Presidency (GOVT 308)
12:00PM – 5:00PMNetworking Events + Site Briefings