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Witt in Washington Semester

Â鶹´«Ã½'s Washington Semester is a 14-week program where students work at an internship four days a week, take two evening classes, and go on exciting field trips--for a total of 16 Â鶹´«Ã½ credits. A consortium of 13 small Lutheran schools called the (LCWS) operates the program. Students live in condos in Rosslyn, Va., where the program is located, and are given networking opportunities with Â鶹´«Ã½ and LCWS alumni.

Witt in Washington is open to all students regardless of major. Internships can be found that are relevant to any major and typically will count as credit towards their major (although this varies by department). Recently, students have interned with the White House and on Capitol Hill, with major news organizations (Fox, CNN, etc.), political parties, interest groups, various museums and embassies, Girl Scouts of America, the US Marshal Service, and the FBI. Students are encouraged to find an internship that gives them experiences furthering their career goals, and the LCWS staff assists with that process.

The program operates both fall and spring semesters, and is designed for juniors and seniors, although some second-semester sophomores may be eligible. The process for securing an internship in DC is competitive and a minimum 3.0 overall gpa is preferred. However, students with a 2.8 gpa and previous internship/work experience may be qualified.  Interested students should first speak with Â鶹´«Ã½â€™s campus representative, Dr. Catherine Waggoner (cwaggoner@wittenberg.edu).

Summer Program: While the program does not operate during the summer, students having an internship in DC may apply for housing in our condos. Finding an internship is the responsibility of the student, but the condos owned by the college are the most cost-effective way to live during the summer in DC.

How much does it cost?

In most cases, your complete financial aid package will apply. Â鶹´«Ã½ will bill you for tuition plus a Lutheran College Program fee, which is the same amount as the base on-campus room charge. You are responsible for your own food and transportation. Food costs will vary based on how often you eat out; there are grocery stores nearby and a full kitchen in each condo.

The program fee and tuition provide the following:

  • Penthouse condo (shared with up to three others) in RiverPlace, Rosslyn, Va.
    • Condo includes everything cable, internet, computer, laundry, utilities
    • Full-time property manager who will fix any problems with the condo
    • Buildings have 24-hour security
    • Access to all amenities at RiverPlace (exercise room, swimming pool, etc.)
  • Internship coordinator who helps you find and secure quality internships
    • Helps polish cover letters and resume
    • Provides support if there are any problems with internship
  • 16 credits (8 for internship plus two 4-credit classes)
    • Classes are Â鶹´«Ã½ approved courses that transfer back with grades and can be used for general education requirements (and in some cases will count towards a major or minor).
    • Professors are local professionals with expertise and practical experience.
  • Books for the courses are included at no extra cost.
  • METROPASS for free use of the metro (subway) and bus system.
  • Invitations to Â鶹´«Ã½ alumni social events for networking opportunities
  • Option to sign up for a Witt Mentor to a local alumnus who will meet with you over the semester.

Is there any additional financial aid?

Witt in Washington Grant: Alumni have contributed to a scholarship fund that will provide up to $1000 in additional scholarship aid. Students with financial need can apply. Scholarships will be awarded based on financial need (as determined by the financial aid office) and the availability of scholarship funds.

How do I apply?

The first step is to contact Dr. Catherine Waggoner (cwaggoner@wittenberg.edu), Witt’s campus representative, for a conversation. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until space is filled, but in order to meet internship deadlines, students are encouraged to meet these deadlines:

Fall Semester

  • Fill out
  • Early Action: March 1
  • Regular: April 1

Spring Semester

  • Fill out
  • Early Action: August 1
  • Regular: October 15
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