Back to top

Sebastian Urthaler

Global Economics and Business

The Washington Semester Program (WSP) can be a very valuable experience...

"I am convinced that participating in the program, and especially being at the World Bank for four months, will help me to be more analytical and reasoned when it comes to understanding and solving certain problems," said Urthaler.

Urthaler explained that the complex, multicultural environment of his internship has helped him build his communication and other professional skills.

Learn more about Sebastian's experience

Kami Simmons

Journalism and New Media

I credit the program for giving me the opportunity to think broadly...

Simmons interned at the Voice of America as their English Division Social Media intern. Throughout her time at the Washington Semester Program she made it a point to ask questions about how policy-making relates to fashion, pop culture, and her many other interests. Simmons learned so much from WSP and her summer internship that she was encouraged to apply to the White House for the fall 2015 semester.

Learn more about Kami's experience

An Unsurpassed Experience

When you join the Washington Semester Program at American University, you will be connected with an accredited top-ranked university with 70 years of experience providing college students from around the U.S. and the world with internships and seminars that align professional development with academic coursework.

Join us and immerse yourself in a global environment while pursuing academic coursework and an internship in your field of interest.

Seminars

You will learn from professors who are experts in their fields and who know Washington, DC. They will introduce you to new concepts, challenge your perspectives, and give you the opportunity to learn from respected experts. You also will visit international organizations and be a part of history as it unfolds.

Internships

No matter what your career interests or college major, your internship will fit your goals. You will expand your network and acquire valuable experience that distinguishes you from other students - at your home college - and in future internships and jobs.

What Sets Us Apart

  • Earn 12-17 American University credits that you transfer back to your home university.
  • Learn from guest speakers who are at the top of their fields.
  • Benefit from site visits to Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, NGOs, and international nonprofit organizations.
  • Intern at a diverse range of organizations, government agencies, businesses, or Fortune 500 companies in the DC-area.
  • Unsurpassed experience working with college students coming to DC for internships.
  • Professional internships, in which you will gain practical knowledge of a career field.
  • Comprehensive career guidance toward solidifying your career plan.
  • Individual feedback on your resume, LinkedIn profile, and professional correspondence.
  • Guided training on communication and navigating professional events.
  • International and DC connections by way of your internship and networking events.
  • Opportunities to make personalized connections with professional mentors.
  • Access to AU events, such as Orientation, an internship fair, and Professional Development Day.
  • AU student services & resources and living on campus.

A Real Look into WSP

2:46

Faculty, staff, students and alumni share their insights about the Washington Semester Program.

Alumna Perspective

29:57

Take an inside look into the Washington Semester Program. Join Assistant Director of Recruitment and Admissions, Emily Aronoff as she discusses the ins and outs of the Washington Semester Program with alumna Rache'l Oatis.