Students explore opportunities in Washington through WilDCats at the Capitol

Since its establishment in 2016, the WilDCats at the Capitol internship program at the University of Kentucky has provided students with valuable opportunities for transformative experiences in Washington, D.C.

Established through a collaboration between the Office of Federal Relations, the Department of Political Science in the College of Arts and Sciences, and the Student Government Association, this program has become a cornerstone of experiential learning for UK students.

Gavin Cooper, currently a junior studying community and leadership development at UK, has been participating in the WilDCats in the Capitol internship during the Spring 2024 semester, working in the office of Senator Joe Manchin (WV).

Cooper shared, “My favorite aspect of this program is gaining hands-on experience at a high level. Every task here in D.C. impacts our lives in significant ways, and this opportunity allows us to witness the process firsthand.”

At its essence, the program offers students a semester-long immersive experience in the nation's capital. Participants live together, attend classes, and intern full-time, all while staying on track to complete their degrees. This blend of academic and professional development enables students to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings, preparing them for successful careers post-graduation.

Cooper noted, “This program is exceptional because it has enabled me to gain valuable internship experience without extending my graduation timeline.”

Over time, WilDCats at the Capitol has expanded its scope through collaborations with various university departments and offices. Last year, the Office of Federal Relations partnered with the Office for Student Success to promote the program across all academic colleges and departments, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for students from diverse backgrounds.

Amelia Iliohan, a UK graduate who participated in WilDCats at the Capitol in 2018, emphasized the program's role in broadening her career horizons. Coming from a small town in Western Kentucky, she saw this program as her gateway to exploring career opportunities in Washington. Today, she works as the associate director of events and member engagement at the National Association of States Departments of Agriculture (NASDA).

Iliohan reflected, “This program opened doors for me to discover my passion for international agriculture. It provides comprehensive support—educationally, financially, socially, and personally—for UK students from all backgrounds. My experience in the program laid the foundation for my career in Washington, D.C.”

Executive Director of Federal Relations Eric King highlighted the university's commitment to student success by appointing Matthew Jackson as assistant director of federal relations, tasked with managing and promoting the WilDCats at the Capitol program. This strategic decision underscores the university's dedication to expanding its presence in Washington, ensuring students have ample opportunities for growth and success.

The WilDCats at the Capitol internship program transcends mere professional development. Whether working with Members of Congress or collaborating with esteemed organizations like NASA and UPS, students have the chance to explore diverse career paths and contribute meaningfully to society.

The program extends an invitation to all students to join the WilDCats at the Capitol community in Washington. Their mission is to empower the next generation of leaders while promoting continued education and growth.