Indiana University has established a permanent hub in Washington, D.C., marking a new phase for its long-standing academic presence in the nation’s capital. The university’s history in Washington spans nearly 50 years, especially through programs focused on public policy and international affairs.
Multiple schools at Indiana University (IU) have offered students the chance to earn course credit while interning with government representatives, federal agencies, and nongovernmental organizations. The Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs has connected undergraduates to Washington through the Washington Leadership Program for over four decades. More recently, the school introduced the D.C. Accelerator Program for Master of Public Affairs students.
Other IU schools also provide similar opportunities. The College of Arts and Sciences sends undergraduates from various disciplines to participate in internships through its Politics, Opportunity, Leadership, Social Entrepreneurship program. The Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Affairs offers the D.C. Global Policy Program for students interested in global business and international affairs.
Through these programs, students like Collin Monesmith and Connor Elliott have gained experience by interning with members of Congress before graduating in December 2025. Monesmith interned with U.S. Sen. Todd Young, where he assisted constituents and researched topics such as cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence—areas relevant to legislation sponsored by Young.
“You learn about the federal government process in class, but through the internship, I get to be a part of it,” Monesmith said.
Elliott’s background includes serving as a national delegate at the 2024 Democratic National Convention before his internship with U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar of California’s 33rd District.
“The Washington Leadership Program was the perfect fit for my passion and ambition,” Elliott said.
He credited his experience at IU for helping him “grow confidently and acquiring the tools needed” for his current role as field director for the Indiana House Democratic Caucus.
Students pursuing careers outside government have also found value in these programs. Undergraduate Bailey Rubinstein interned at the Child Welfare League of America, working on legislative agendas and attending congressional hearings.
Rubinstein noted that connecting with IU alumni based in D.C. provided “the best opportunity in the world to meet and talk to people while setting yourself up for a great career.”
Graduate student Jayvee Del Rosario leveraged his banking background from the Philippines during an internship with the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative through O’Neill’s D.C. Accelerator Program.
“Navigating a career change, and doing so in a new country, can be a challenge, but O’Neill helps steady the process,” Del Rosario said. “Being in D.C. pushed me beyond my comfort zone, but there are supportive staff, faculty and alumni who help you thrive.”
The opening of IU’s dedicated building at 1619 Massachusetts Ave NW provides classroom space, conference rooms, event venues and student housing—addressing previous logistical challenges faced by students seeking accommodations or classroom space throughout Washington.
“On Monday nights, everyone had to flock from their workplace to the classroom building then travel back to our apartments afterwards,” Rubinstein said.
With this facility located near Dupont Circle—a central area—the university aims to ease commuting burdens while fostering community among students across different cohorts.
According to its official website, Indiana University Bloomington is known not only as a public research institution established in 1820 but also as an important contributor to Indiana’s economy and cultural life; it draws students from all U.S states and more than 150 countries; it features historic limestone architecture; advances research innovation; maintains a diverse community; serves as a leading center for higher education; offers undergraduate through professional programs; welcomes diversity; maintains historic facilities; contributes significantly statewide economically and culturally.
