Washington Fellows
The Washington Fellows program is a two-week intensive course in Washington, DC that connects students to some of the nation’s top public servants, researchers, and journalists by discussing pressing public policy issues with them. Each year, the trip’s itinerary is personalized to the interests of that cohort, in addition to the standard variety of career fields and policy areas that the trip covers. Washington Fellows is an experiential learning opportunity for students that allows them to network with professionals, learn about career options in their field of interest, experience the DC lifestyle, and see real-world policymaking in the nation’s capital.
For students who are seeking academic credit, this program offers an optional 3 credit-hour course; more information below. Students of all academic programs and levels are encouraged to apply for this opportunity.
Program Fee
The program fee is $1,995 and includes:
- Double occupancy accommodations in DC
- Round-trip bus transportation to DC
- Metro passes for DC transportation
- A “Monuments by Moonlight” tour
- Professional materials (nametag, padfolio, lanyards, lapel pins)
- Group meals (students will be expected to provide their own meals during the free weekend)
Financial support is available through the Baker School, but students are encouraged to reach out to their departments and other UTK offices for additional scholarships.
It is estimated that students should plan for around $300 to cover excluded meals, incidentals, and other discretionary activities.
Academic Credit
Students have the option to receive academic credit in conjunction with this learning experience. Students may request credit through their home academic departments or enroll in the Baker School course during the Summer Mini-Term. Students who opt in for the mini-term are responsible for paying for tuition, a cost separate and not included in the program fee. Students do not have to enroll in the mini-term to participate in this program.
Contact
To learn more about Washington Fellows, please contact the Student Programs team at BakerStudents@utk.edu.
2024 Application
For the 2024 program, applications open on Monday, January 22, 2024, and close at 5:00pm on Friday, March 1, 2024.
Students will be required to submit an application that includes a self-introduction letter, unofficial transcript, and updated resume. After students submit their applications, they will receive details on the brief interviews. A $700 deposit will be required to secure a student’s spot, once selected.
