Building National Impact, One Student at a Time
Supporting the Penn State College of the Liberal Arts Semester in Washington Program is more than helping a student secure an internship—it’s an investment in national leadership and career readiness.
Your philanthropy strengthens the pipeline of Liberal Arts graduates prepared to drive progress, innovation, and transformation in Washington, D.C., across the country, and around the globe.
A Career Readiness Experience in the Nation’s Capital
The Semester in Washington Program immerses students in one of the world’s most dynamic professional environments. Designed to advance career readiness, it combines rigorous academics with high-impact internships that allow students to apply their Liberal Arts education in real-world settings.
Students complete full-time internships that align with their goals, earn academic credit, and live in housing arranged by Penn State. They also participate in professional development and networking events with Penn State alumni and industry leaders. Each student is paired with two alumni mentors who provide personalized career guidance throughout the semester.
Looking Ahead
Launching in summer 2026, the Semester in Washington Program will initially serve political science majors before expanding to additional Liberal Arts disciplines.
The program will feature classrooms, collaborative spaces, and venues for student and alumni engagement, creating a home for Penn Staters living, learning, and leading in the nation’s capital.
Your Philanthropy in Action
- Strengthening the talent pipeline: Liberal Arts graduates enter the workforce with a world-class education and real-world experience.
- Alumni and Industry Networks: Penn State’s D.C. alumni community provides mentorship, guidance, and lasting professional connections.
- Expanding Opportunity: Program support removes financial barriers, ensuring equitable access for all qualified students.
- Driving Transformation: Penn Staters have long been leaders in public service and policy—this program builds upon that legacy of impact.
Join Us
Gifts to the Penn State College of the Liberal Arts Semester in Washington Program create life-changing opportunities for students to learn, grow, and lead in our nation’s capital.
Join us in preparing the next generation of Penn State leaders to make a difference in Washington, across the country, and around the world.
Contact
Lydell R. Sargeant
Senior Director of Development
lrs197@psu.edu
Marie Hojnacki
Semester in Washington Program Director
meh11@psu.edu