FIU D.C. interns help advance federal agenda


This summer, Governmental Relations launched the D.C. Capital Internship Experience. The initiative aims to provide FIU students who are currently interning in the nation’s capital the opportunity to be engaged in advancing the university’s federal agenda, learn about policy-making and network within the city.

A major priority has also been to connect interns with alumni working in federal agencies and on Capitol Hill. Along with various networking opportunities, several interns have been paired with mentors throughout the summer.

“It’s the best feeling to know that alumni are in D.C. ready to show me the ropes, to aide me in my professional development,” said Javier Lopez ’12, who is interning at the office of Congresswoman lleana Ros-Lehtinen ’77, ’81.

Fifty-nine summer interns have been placed in more than 24 organizations and agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency, US Small Business Administration, NASA Goddard Space Center and the Department of Energy. These very same agencies are pivotal to advancing the university’s research agenda and building the FIU brand nationally.

As the students arrived this summer, Federal Relations hosted an orientation, educating them on the federal agenda and encouraging the interns to showcase the talents of FIU while shining a light on their individual talents and abilities.

Other activities have included a welcome BBQ with the D.C. Capital Panthers Alumni, a “How to Network Effectively” Workshop and “Lobbying 101,” a training session hosted by experienced alumni from the Hill.

“These workshops are giving me the tools that I need to ensure that my time here in D.C. is used effectively,” said Erick Espinoza ’11, who is interning at the U.S. Census Bureau.

Students will help tell the FIU story within their worksites as well as help the Governmental Relations team identify opportunities for further collaboration or engagement. The goal is to create a cycle of advocacy that continues far beyond the completion of their internships and into their professional lives as alumni advocates.

FIU researchers and students are engaged locally and globally to create solutions to national challenges such as renewable energy, impacts to coastal ecosystems and transportation planning. The Governmental Relations team encourages all members of the university community to become advocates and learn more about FIU’s federal priorities.

To become an alumni mentor or learn more about the D.C. Capital Internship Experience, contact the Washington D.C. Office at 202-600-4560.

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