Bloomington Leader

Indiana University students are gaining valuable experience in Washington, D.C., through the Washington Leadership Program and the D.C. Accelerator program offered by the Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. These programs provide undergraduates and graduate students with opportunities to learn from decision-makers while interning at key agencies.

Julia Hyde, a junior studying public policy, participated in the Washington Leadership Program and interned at the D.C. Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency. She contributed to security plans for the presidential inauguration on January 20, 2025, developed an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Program, and responded to a gas explosion that displaced residents.

Hyde’s path to Indiana University began after her time in the Army National Guard and work at Indianapolis International Airport. "I had an idea that I wanted to go into some kind of public service," she said about her decision to enroll at IU Indianapolis.

Stacy Lozer, O’Neill Director of Career Services, emphasized the value of these experiences: “The Washington Leadership Program provides incredible opportunities for students to work, learn and live in our nation’s capital.”

Hyde found her time in D.C. transformative: “It was a very cool experience that was a turning point for me and solidified my passion for public service.” Now back in Indianapolis, she works as a public safety coordinator for the Indiana State Fairgrounds.

Madelyn Mustaine is another student benefiting from these programs. As part of the D.C. Accelerator program, she interned at AcademyHealth’s Evidence-Informed State Health Policy Institute. Her research focused on state Medicaid policies aimed at improving health outcomes.

Mustaine praised the program: “The D.C. Accelerator program gives students a unique chance to work on high-impact projects.” She has since accepted a position with Congress's Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission.

Christina Motilall, an instructor for Mustaine who works at the Environmental Protection Agency, highlighted how O’Neill’s programs help students gain confidence: “O’Neill’s D.C. programs are a great place to get started on that journey.”