Go inside the world of politics and policy.
Inside Washington is a semester-long experience that provides participants with a deeper understanding of how politics and policy shape initiatives in the nation’s capital. Through in-person sessions in Washington, D.C., students will develop an understanding of the relationships between elected officials, government leaders, political parties, lobbyists, advocacy groups, and others tasked with getting things done in Washington.
This semester's program will specifically focus on the aftermath of the 2024 Presidential and Congressional elections, and the new administration. This immersive experience will allow students to explore the critical significance of the first 100 days in office.
Participants will engage with guest speakers and recent alumni who have worked for both parties, offering unique insights into the challenges and opportunities the incoming administration will face. Students will gain a firsthand perspective on the priorities and strategies that shape early governance, as well as the dynamics between the White House, Congress, and public opinion.
While exploring Washington, D.C., participants will meet media and policy experts and visit key landmarks in our nation's capital. This experience will deepen their understanding of the political processes at work and highlight the lasting impact of the first 100 days on the future of American politics.
Students can expect:
- Biweekly sessions in Washington, D.C., with Gettysburg alumni who are Washington insiders.
- An Immersive Spring Break trip to Washington, D.C., that will expose students to government institutions, and the breadth of public service careers in politics, advocacy, lobbying, and other fields.
- A project that will provide each student the opportunity to develop an understanding of the legislative process.
- Networking opportunities that will help participants learn more about careers and think through how their academic work can translate to professional environments in politics, advocacy, lobbying, diplomacy, and other public service fields.
This program will highlight skills and experiences that prepare students for involvement in other Eisenhower Institute programs, and possible careers in Washington including civic engagement and networking.
Inside Washington is led by a bipartisan team of Gettysburg College alumni: Ryan Woodward ’12, the Chief of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs at the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), and Tony McComiskey '14, the Director of Scheduling for Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ).
Spring 2025 Schedule
Regular sessions will take place on Friday afternoons in Washington, D.C. There are two additional sessions in Washington - a full-day during spring break and an evening networking event. Transportation will be provided and travel time is included in the schedule below.
This list is tentative and dates may be updated; please consider your availability on Friday afternoons when deciding to apply.
Session 1 in D.C.:
- Friday, January 31st, 1pm-8pm
Session 2 in D.C.:
- Friday, February 14th, 1pm-8pm
Session 3 in D.C.:
- Monday, February 28th, 1pm-8pm
Day-Long Visit to D.C.:
- Friday, March 7th, 7am-8pm
Alumni Panel and Networking Reception in D.C.
- Wednesday, March 26th, 3pm-10pm
Session 4 in D.C.:
- Friday, April 4th, 1pm-8pm
Students are expected to attend all sessions. It is each students' responsibility to ensure that class schedules do not conflict, or to make arrangements with professors to make up work.