A-State political science student takes part in law internship in Washington, D.C.

JONESBORO – A program that Arkansas State University (A-State) students take part in is turning dreams into reality.

The Washington Center (TWC) Academic Internship Program allows students to intern in Washington, D.C., giving them exposure to work in government and politics while staying on track with their coursework.

“Students will complete an internship anywhere in D.C., take part in an academic course, and complete a professional development program. The internship and course vary depending on the student's interests,” said Dr. Jordan Butcher, associate professor of political science at A-State.

Taylor McIntyre, a junior political science student at A-State, signed up for the semester-long internship. The Beebe native arrived in D.C. in September and is currently immersed in the program.

“The program gives us the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally, from listening to speakers and talking with them afterward, to exploring the city, connecting with new friends, and meeting impressive minds from a variety of fields and majors,” McIntyre said.

During the week, she commutes by subway to her internship at a law firm in Alexandria, Virginia.

"I think this internship has helped me, and at the very least, it has given me relationships and opportunities that will benefit my professional career," McIntyre said.

As an aspiring lawyer, McIntyre said the program allows her to get a glimpse of her future while still keeping up with her academic progress.

"On Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., I attend my class for this semester on U.S. foreign policy," she said. "This class has taught me a great deal about the inner workings of every foreign policy decision that is made."

TWC offers semester-long internships in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

"Taylor will be the 11th student at A-State to complete the internship program since we began in spring 2023," Butcher said.

Recruitment for the TWC Academic Internship Program is currently underway for spring, summer, and fall 2025.

According to Butcher, “Right now, priority for participation is given to students in the Department of Government, Law & Policy, but it tends to be a better fit for these students.” “However, our upcoming seminar in May could also be great for criminology students because it focuses on national security.”

McIntyre is one of 150 undergraduate students from institutions of higher education taking part in the TWC program. She credits Butcher with helping pave the way for A-State students to pursue the TWC internship program, creating a pipeline for those interested in government or law to get their foot in the door.

The program and the university work together with students to help reduce the financial barriers that might discourage students from applying.

“This round, everything is state-funded, but students can apply for the Berry Public Service Scholarship, and it has been used to help cover part of the cost of the trip in the past. Arkansas residents can receive $6,000 in state scholarship funds toward program tuition and a $1,000 state discount on housing fees," Butcher said.

The Berry Scholarship was established by the family and associates of the late Marion Berry, who represented Arkansas's First Congressional District from 1997 to 2011.

To learn more about TWC, you can contact Butcher at jbutcher@AState.edu or by phone at 870-680-8045.