FIU’s office in Washington, D.C., is a showcase for FIU's national research impact and provides students with engaged academic experiences. It offers students with any major or career interest a chance to learn how the federal government works and can even help with landing an internship or a job in the nation’s capital.
FIU in DC's Talent Lab offers comprehensive programming to students wanting to make an impact on the world’s greatest challenges. Whether aiming to drive policy, save lives or improve the environment, students need an understanding of how decisions get made in Washington and how they can influence them. Programs are centered on the principles of interdisciplinary, experiential learning and expose students to the most essential elements of Washington, D.C.'s policymaking infrastructure and the technical and professional skills needed to succeed.
“The Talent Lab provided me opportunities that continue to help me in my professional life,” said Ignacio Olmos ’22, who currently serves as an intern in the Washington, D.C. office of Florida Senator Marco Rubio. “Through the Talent Lab, I gained an understanding of federal advocacy and the different methods of tackling a legislative problem with purpose and passion.”
This semester, more than 25 FIU students are serving as interns for federal institutions such as the Department of Commerce, the U.S. Department of Agricutlure and the U.S Chamber of Commerce as well as in congressional offices and at private organizations such as the Partnership for Public Service and the International Republican Institute. The Talent Lab assisted them in securing their spots and will continue to connect them with mentorship and support during their time in the nation’s capital. More than 100 other students will participate this year in nine career seminar fly-ins organized by the Talent Lab.
Interested in spending a semester in Washington, D.C.? Here's how to get started.
Micro-credential
The first step is to enroll in the virtual "Fundamentals of Government and Policy for Career Success" micro-credential. This online offering teaches students about Washington’s policy ecosystem and how it applies to their own career interests. With interactive content and expert insights, students will build confidence to navigate D.C.’s fast-paced environment. For example, students majoring in the sciences learn to communicate their understanding of issues such as climate change to leaders in the best position to enact policies to address critical problems. Students with an interest in social issues learn a way to navigate the halls of power to reach those who share their concerns. Upon completing the micro-credential, students will have an understanding of what kind of careers might align with their interests and talents. They will also learn to budget for a semester of living in D.C.
Student research advocates
Students majoring in sciences or communications can consider the role of university research advocate. It all starts with touring FIU's federally funded research labs and meeting with researchers on campus to comprehend how FIU is contributing in areas such as environmental challenges, population health and emerging defense technologies. With that background, students will help make the case for additional funding to legislators and other leaders who visit campus, and they will have a chance to speak directly with representatives in Washington.
“I had the opportunity to visit D.C. with the principal investigator of my lab, Dr. Azzam, to meet with our local representatives and advocate for cancer research,” said Baylee Halcomb, an Honors College student majoring in chemistry. “The exposure to the policy-making process, combined with the support and resources from FIU in DC, creates a transformative experience that benefits any career path."
Ultimately, these students will advocate for FIU’s congressional priorities as they accelerate their career journey in policy, communications and business.
Hamilton Scholars and Talent Lab Programming
Leading the student advocacy and programming efforts, the Hamilton Scholars put to use their event planning and public speaking skills as they present a series of meetings in the D.C. office to provide their peers with helpful career guidance from national experts. Although taking place in Washington, D.C., these upcoming programs will be available virtually for all FIU students and are aimed at exposing them to national thought leaders and employment opportunities:
- Monday, September 16: COMMUNICATIONS – Elevate communication skills and craft impactful stories for advocacy
- Thursday, October 17: POLICY AND POLITICS: – Hispanic Vote National Poll, 2024 Presidential Transition in collaboration with the Partnership for Public Service
- Monday, October 28: ENVIRONMENT– Climate Technologies
- November: GLOBAL LEARNING – Technology’s impact on global governance
These programs will be available for viewing on FIU in DC’s YouTube page.
Fly-in seminars
FIU in DC is collaborating with campus partners to offer fly-in seminars throughout the year for any student looking to travel to Washington, D.C., in preparation for a semester-long internship. The seminars provide students the chance to interact with policy experts and learn essential skills.
FIU in DC’s signature fly-in this fall semester is the Climate Technologies Fly-In, where students will explore how FIU’s climate-ready technologies will shape their careers and global solutions from a Washington, D.C. perspective. FIU’s Wall of Wind, along with the newly announced ClimateReady Tech Hub, will play defining roles in the future of environmental resilience and global restoration efforts. This immersive three-day experience will connect students with high-profile leaders and introduce you to new and engaging ideas. Students are invited to apply for this fly-in using our website.
“We are excited to connect students with the dynamic world of Washington, D.C. and help them with an invaluable opportunity to explore their future career paths,” said Michelle Castro, director of Student Experiences and Impact. “Through these fly-in seminars, students will engage directly with policy experts and industry leaders, gaining insights into fields like climate technologies and population health. By immersing themselves in the vibrant environment of Washington, D.C., they will not only learn essential career skills but also open their minds to new possibilities and innovative ideas. This experience will serve as a powerful stepping stone, helping them to envision and pursue their aspirations with greater clarity and confidence.”