Since its inception in 2016, the WilDCats at the Capitol internship program at the University of Kentucky has paved the way for students to have transformative experiences in Washington, D.C.
Developed through a partnership between the Office of Federal Relations, the College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Political Science, and the Student Government Association, the program has become a cornerstone of experiential learning for UK students.
Gavin Cooper is presently an undergraduate at UK pursuing community and leadership development. During the spring 2024 semester, he was part of WilDCats at the Capitol and interned in the office of Senator Joe Manchin (WV).
“My favorite part of this program is having the opportunity to gain high-level hands-on experience,” said Cooper. “Every work here in DC affects our lives in complicated ways and this is a chance to see how it all happens.”
At its foundation, the program promises students an immersive, semester-long experience in the nation’s capital. Participants reside together, attend classes and intern full-time while remaining on course to acquire their degrees. This unique combination of academic and professional development allows students to implement classroom knowledge in the real world, preparing them for successful careers after graduation.
“This program is truly special because it has allowed me to gain impactful internship experience without disrupting my graduation timeline,” said Cooper.
Over the years, WildCats at the Capitol has expanded its scope through partnerships with various departments and agencies within the university. Last year, the Office of Federal Relations joined forces with the Office for Student Success to promote the program across all academic colleges and departments, ensuring students from every discipline have the opportunity to participate.
Amelia Iliohan is a UK graduate who participated in WildDCats at the Capitol in 2018. She grew up in a small community in Western Kentucky and says this program was the only viable means for her to experience career opportunities in Washington. She now works as the Assistant Director of Events and Member Engagement at the National Association of States Departments of Agriculture (NASDA).
“This program created a gateway for me to find my passion for international agriculture,” said Iliohan. “WilDCats at the Capital is a comprehensive program that supports UK students from all colleges and all socio-economic backgrounds educationally, financially, socially and personally. Without my experience in the program, I would not be in Washington DC today in a vocation I love.”
Executive Director of Federal Relations Eric King conveyed the university’s commitment to prioritizing student requirements by announcing Matthew Jackson as Assistant Director of Federal Relations, who will manage and promote the WildCats at the Capitol program. This strategic decision underscores the university’s commitment to expanding its influence in Washington and assuring students have unparalleled opportunities for development and success.
WilDCats’ apprentice program at Capitol is not just about acquiring professional experience and making a difference. From working with members of Congress to collaborating with top organizations like NASA and UPS, students can investigate diverse career paths and make meaningful contributions to society.
The program invites all students to join them in Washington and become part of the Wildcats in the Capitol community. Their aim is to continue to empower the next generation of leaders while continuing to educate them.
Kari Pettersen