by Michaela Carpenter, Public Relations Writer
Cedarville University students experienced U.S. domestic and foreign policy firsthand as they spent the fall semester working, living and learning in Washington, D.C.
The 11 students who participated in Cedarville’s D.C. Semester program for fall 2017 semester worked as interns at the Commission for Security and Cooperation in Europe, The Heritage Foundation, the American Enterprise Institute, International Justice Mission and The Trinity Forum.
Four students worked on Capitol Hill as staffers for the Speaker of the House of Representatives Paul Ryan, Rep. Mike Turner (OH-10), Rep. Warren Davidson (OH-8) and Rep. Steve Russell (OK-5).
In addition to their internships, students earned college credit through courses taught by Dr. Glen Duerr, assistant professor of international studies and faculty supervisor for this semester’s program.
For Duerr, one of the most beneficial aspects of this program is students gaining experience while making valuable networking connections.
“The time spent on Capitol Hill this semester is of immense value; not only do the students have a much greater understanding of U.S. domestic and foreign policy, they also have tangible real-world experience,” said Duerr. “In essence, they are all in a four-month ‘job interview’ since many interns are hired post-graduation.”
In addition to their internships and coursework, students also experienced other unique opportunities the city had to offer. The group visited the Pentagon and the FBI Academy, with tours and Q&A sessions with Cedarville alumni afterward; completed an international simulation and tour at the State Department; visited the U.S. Capitol; and completed tours and Q&A sessions at both The Heritage Foundation and the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. They also enjoyed a Washington Nationals baseball game and a visit to the National Air and Space Museum.
“For any major, it is an opportunity to really learn how government works,” said Duerr. “There are so many political and historical opportunities for learning around every corner.”
Located in southwest Ohio, Cedarville University is an accredited, Christ-centered, Baptist institution with an enrollment of 3,963 undergraduate, graduate, and online students in more than 150 areas of study. Founded in 1887, Cedarville is recognized nationally for its authentic Christian community, rigorous academic programs, strong graduation and retention rates, accredited professional and health science offerings, and leading student satisfaction ratings. For more information about the University, visit www.cedarville.edu.