New USC in D.C. Spring Semester Program is set to begin

The debut USC in D.C. Spring Semester Program, stationed at USC’s Capital Campus in Washington, D.C., is primed for launch, with the program accepting applications until Sept. 19.

A progression from the USC Dornsife in D.C. program, USC in D.C. grants sophomores, juniors, and seniors from all fields the opportunity to reside, work, and study in the nation’s capital. Throughout the spring semester, students shall continue advancing toward their degree while undertaking an internship in one of D.C.’s most prominent industries — including government entities, think tanks, media and communications firms, law offices, and advocacy organizations.

The recently consolidated program, which is anticipated to accommodate approximately 60 participants, will commence in January and is organized in partnership with the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism; the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences; the USC Gould School of Law; and the USC Price School of Public Policy.

“All paths lead to D.C.,” USC Capital Campus Executive Director Elyse Levine stated. “Regardless of their school or discipline, students can gain from studying, interning, and living in the capital. That’s why we’re thrilled to unveil this reinterpreted program with a multidisciplinary approach that links USC students to D.C.’s numerous fields, experts, and prospects.”

A defining feature of the program will be the tightly-knit nature of the interdisciplinary group, backed by expert faculty mentors who facilitate stimulating learning encounters both inside and outside the classroom.

The program provides USC students the chance to immerse themselves in the nation’s capital and engage in an academically rich and socially interactive experience. Students will also gain access to the extensive Trojan alumni network in the D.C. area and the opportunity to attend and partake in events at the Capital Campus. The initiative also aligns with the university’s commitment to equipping and motivating students to recognize and value ideological differences in various scenarios.

The initiative enables participants to live and learn collaboratively while allowing each student to follow their individual academic trajectory. As part of the initiative, students will enroll in specialized academic “tracks,” which encompass politics and international relations, public policy, legal studies, and political communication. All participants will attend the class “How Washington Works” with celebrated political analyst, former NBC Meet the Press host, and USC Capital Campus Scholar-in-Residence Chuck Todd, providing insights into American politics and the political framework.

All students are expected to secure an internship as part of the initiative, Levine remarked. “When combined with the academic component, these internships will profoundly impact students’ lives, assisting them in gaining self-assurance, developing their professional abilities, networking, and exploring future career possibilities,” she elaborated.

Students will receive assistance from the USC Career Center, their college career center, and the Capital Campus as they seek internships.

Alongside USC financial aid typically available during the academic year, students involved in USC in D.C. have access to two specific scholarships: the Epstein Family D.C. Student Experience Scholarship and the Leslee Sherrill Scholarship. These scholarships furnish students with general financial assistance to cover travel, accommodation, tuition, housing, living expenses, or other qualifying costs related to their academic endeavors in D.C.

The program is among various new initiatives commencing at the Capital Campus this academic year, including the First Semester in D.C. Program that initiated this fall, alongside a prospective summer program and more.