WilDCats at the Capitol: Bridging Opportunities for UK Students in Washington, D.C.

WilDCats at the Capitol: Bridging Opportunities for UK Students in Washington, D.C., WilDCats at the Capitol: Unleashing Academic and Professional Potential in Washington, D.C.

Since its establishment in 2016, the WilDCats at the Capitol internship program at the University of Kentucky has been instrumental in facilitating transformative experiences for students in the nation’s capital.

Established in 2016:
- A collaboration between the Office of Federal Relations, the Department of Political Science, and the Student Government Association.
- Fosters transformative experiences for students in Washington, D.C.
Semester-long Immersion:
- Participants live together, take classes, and intern full-time while progressing towards their degrees.
- Provides a unique blend of academic and professional development.
Testimonials from Participants:
- Gavin Cooper, a junior studying community and leadership development, praises the program for its hands-on experience at a high level.
- Alumni like Amelia Iliohan credit the program for opening doors to career opportunities and personal growth.
Inclusivity and Accessibility:
- Collaborations with various university departments ensure opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.
- A commitment to empowering students across disciplines and socioeconomic statuses.
Strategic Leadership:
- Appointment of Matthew Jackson as the assistant director of federal relations underscores the university’s dedication to expanding opportunities in Washington.
Professional Advancement:
- Opportunities to engage with policymakers and organizations like NASA and UPS.
- Empowers students to make meaningful contributions to society.
University Commitment:
- Reflects the University of Kentucky’s mission to advance the Commonwealth through education, research, and service.
- Recognition by Forbes and INSIGHT into Diversity highlights UK’s commitment to excellence and inclusivity.
Supportive Environment:
- Guided by the Office for Student Success, students receive unwavering support throughout their academic journey.
- Encourages students to fulfill their potential and leave a lasting impact on the world.

Empowering UK Students through Experiential Learning and Career Exploration

A collaborative effort between the Office of Federal Relations, the Department of Political Science in the College of Arts and Sciences, and the Student Government Association, the program stands as a beacon of experiential learning at UK. Offering a semester-long immersion in Washington, D.C., students partake in classes, internships, and communal living, all while maintaining progress towards their degrees.

Gavin Cooper, a junior studying community and leadership development, shares his enthusiasm for the program, highlighting the invaluable hands-on experience gained at a high level. Interning in Senator Joe Manchin’s office during the Spring 2024 semester, Cooper emphasizes the program’s role in illuminating the intricate dynamics shaping our lives.

The program’s impact extends beyond professional development, as it fosters a nurturing environment for personal growth and exploration. By collaborating with various departments and offices within the university, such as the Office for Student Success, WilDCats at the Capitol ensures inclusivity and accessibility across disciplines and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Amelia Iliohan, a program alumna now thriving in her career at the National Association of States Departments of Agriculture, attests to the program’s transformative influence. For Iliohan, WilDCats at the Capitol served as a gateway to discovering her passion for international agriculture, transcending geographical barriers to pursue her aspirations.

Recognizing the program’s significance, the university underscores its commitment to student success by appointing Matthew Jackson as the assistant director of federal relations. This strategic move reflects UK’s dedication to expanding opportunities in Washington and fostering a conducive environment for students to thrive.

Beyond professional advancement, WilDCats at the Capitol empowers students to make meaningful contributions to society by engaging with policymakers and esteemed organizations like NASA and UPS. It invites all students to join the vibrant community and embark on a journey of discovery, leadership, and service.

As the flagship institution of Kentucky, the University of Kentucky remains steadfast in its mission to advance the Commonwealth through education, research, and service. Through initiatives like WilDCats at the Capitol, UK continues to nurture the next generation of leaders, driving positive change in the world.

In 2022, UK’s commitment to excellence was recognized by Forbes and INSIGHT into Diversity, underscoring its dedication to fostering an inclusive community and empowering students to lead lives of meaning.

At the University of Kentucky, students are not just learners but catalysts for innovation and progress. Guided by the Office for Student Success, students receive unwavering support throughout their academic journey, ensuring they fulfill their potential and leave a lasting impact on the world.