The Washington Semester

• PAF 9615: Who Makes Policy? (3 credits)
• PAF 9115: Intergovernmental Relations (3 credits)
• PAF 9192 Fellowship in Public Affairs (6 credits); a high-value internship experience that requires each student to work a minimum of 28 hours per week for 15 weeks in a government agency, congressional office, or nonprofit organization

Internship placements are matched with each student’s level of preparation and career goals. Previous in-person placements include:

• Congressman Adriano Espaillat
• Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez
• Minority Business Development Agency
• State Department
• Center for Civilians in Conflict
• Food & Water Watch
• Inter-American Development Bank
• National Association of Latino Elected Officials
• National Women’s Law Center
• Truth Initiative

For internship questions contact Faculty Director Yvette LaGonterie yvette.lagonterie@baruch.cuny.edu

• Guest lectures from leading well-known journalists, top administrators, and key policymakers
• Access to academic and student support services remotely and in person throughout the semester
• Tours of national landmarks
• Museum visits (e.g., National Archives; Smithsonian: Air and Space, American Indian, etc.)
• Cultural & networking events

All students selected to participate in the Washington Semester receive individual Marxe Study Away Awards to cover the cost of housing at student housing residence arranged by the program.

Applications are due on March 31 and will be considered on a first-come basis. Early applications are strongly encouraged as the number of seats is limited. To be eligible for the program, students must have a minimum of 9 credits completed (with a grade) at the start of the fall semester, be in good standing with no blocks on their student record and hold a minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA.

• All qualifying applicants will be asked to interview with the Washington Semester faculty followed by a meeting with a member of the Marxe Dean’s Office to ensure they understand the administrative requirements for Marxe Study Away programs.
• Interviews and meetings will be held in-person or via video conference service or telephone.
• Students will be notified of their selection by April 30 and will receive an offer agreement from the Marxe Dean’s Office.
• Once students receive their formal acceptance, they will be registered for the Washington Semester courses by the Marxe Advisement Team.
• Accepted students must pay Baruch College tuition and fees for 12-credits and remain enrolled for 12-credits during the fall semester.
• The receipt of a graduate assistantship and/or the LCU Scholarship is not permitted while in the Washington Semester program.
• Financial aid or other scholarships may be received, but students should contact the Baruch College Office of Financial Aid about their eligibility status.
• Accepted students must contact Faculty Director Yvette LaGonterie yvette.lagonterie@baruch.cuny.edu about their internship placement. It is not possible for students to arrange internships without prior approval from the faculty director.