The Semester in DC Program offers students the opportunity to expand their horizons, gain valuable contacts and legal experience, build their resumes, and learn how our federal government works, all while working in or with a federal agency, congressional office or non-governmental organization (NGO), and living in Washington, DC. If you would like to learn more about this exciting program, please come to an informational meeting about the University of Connecticut School of Law’s Semester in DC Program on Tuesday, January 29, 2013 at 12:30 pm in Blumberg Hall. A pizza lunch will be served.

Students selected for the DC Program work 30-35 hours a week as unpaid legal interns at a participating federal agency, congressional office, or NGO. In addition to interning, students enroll in two evening seminars, Advanced Topics in Legislation and Advanced Topics in Regulation, taught by Professor Richard Parker and other full-time or adjunct members of the law school faculty. In these seminars, students undertake an in-depth review and analysis of the legislative and regulatory processes while also engaging in simulations that provide hands-on experience with negotiating, drafting and implementing statutes and regulations. The seminars also offer students opportunities to visit agencies and other governmental organizations to meet senior staff and learn about the challenges they face, the strategies they have evolved to meet those challenges, and the career opportunities for lawyers who want to work in or with government. Through the program, students have many opportunities to observe and participate in the legal, cultural and intellectual life of the nation’s capitol, including touring the White House, visiting Congress, and attending a Supreme Court argument.

At the informational meeting, Professors Parker and Mailly will describe the field placements available, the application process, and the workplace and classroom aspects of the program. Students who participated in the program this past fall will share their experiences and answer questions.

While most agencies will be hiring later this term, the Justice Department (Environment and Natural Resources Division) and Securities and Exchange Commission do their hiring very early. If you are interested in interning at one of these agencies, contact Professor Jennifer Mailly immediately for information on how to apply.