Program Information 2024-2025
Founded in 1965, CITC is a student-managed internship program housed in the Public Service Center. CITC students intern full-time from early June through mid-August, while exploring their interests, enhancing their professional and leadership skills, learning about national issues and current events, networking with Cal alumni, and exploring the dynamic life of our nation’s capital. During their summer in DC, previous CITC students have drafted legislation, researched national security issues, reported news, assisted in curating museum exhibits, and advocated for innovative public policy. Because of our reputation, many DC employers look to CITC for student interns every summer.
CITC does not place students in internships, but rather supports students in their search for the right internship and thrive in that experience. CITC utilizes connections and alumni relationships to share internship opportunities with students. CITC directors provide students with the appropriate resources based on their interests and career aspirations. Upon acceptance in Fall, students will begin editing their cover letter and resumes. CITC interns are required to take a Spring 2025 DeCal. Students learn the essentials of the internship search process, and discuss current social issues and the many stakeholders and players in DC. Experts from across campus and the community teach resume and cover letter writing, share successful interviewing techniques, and facilitate discussions about national policy issues and current events. Students will plan and participate in local service projects during the spring semester.
During the summer, CITC students are required to live at the UC Washington Center, located in Dupont Circle, in the heart of downtown D.C. Housing costs are approximately $3900 for 10 weeks (final housing fee will be announced in the spring). Students are also responsible for additional living expenses, such as airfare, local transportation, food, and entertainment; thus, the summer can cost ~$6500. Please review Cost and Scholarship Information as a reference for how previous CITC interns have financially supported themselves in the past. While in D.C., CITC students have the option of attending career panels, networking events, conferences, guest lectures, and social events with other interns and local Cal alumni in the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia region.
If there are any questions, please contact calinthecapital@gmail.com
Eligibility
- Undergraduate students who demonstrate interest in public service and creating change.
- Students from all majors are encouraged to apply, including graduating seniors. Please note that more internship opportunities in D.C. are available to upperclassme.
- Due to the Spring Semester DeCal requirement, students planning to study abroad during Spring 2025 are NOT eligible
- Prior experience (leadership, volunteer, internship experience) is preferred, but not required.
Timeline (all dates subject to change)
- September 5th, 2024: CITC application opens.
- September 28th, 2024 at 11:59pm: CITC application closes.
- October 11th – 14th, 2024: Interviews take place.
- November 2024: Summer cohort finalized, CITC Welcome Ceremony hosted by CITC Student Directors.
- January 2025: Deadline to sign housing contract and program expectations.
- May 31st and June 1st, 2025: All students move into UC Washington Center.
- June 2nd, 2025: UC Washington Center mandatory orientation and Cal Alumni Welcome Event.
- August 3rd, 2025: All students move out of UC Washington Center.