UA System Capitol Scholars immersive program is taking applications for summer 2025 cohort

The University of Alabama System (UAS) Capitol Scholars Program takes the summer internship concept to a higher level, say two members of the inaugural 2024 cohort from The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). Kierra Thomas and Sierra Rose Aragon urge their fellow Chargers to check it out.

Interested students can learn more about the program during a Capitol Scholars interest meeting on Sept. 10 at 5 p.m. over Zoom. The deadline to apply for the summer 2025 cohort is Sept. 23 at noon.

Capitol Scholar Kierra Thomas, right, receives a visit from Dr. Noelle Hunter, clinical assistant professor in the Department of Philosophy and Political Science at The University of Alabama in Huntsville, during the summer 2024 internship in Washington, D.C.

Courtesy Noelle Hunter

UAS designed the immersive program for students who plan to pursue a career involving the federal government. Participants spend the summer in Washington, D.C., expanding their view of governmental affairs. Thomas and Aragon say they treasure the experience.

“My time in D.C. with the Capitol Scholars Program opened my eyes to exciting new avenues in government,” says Thomas, who completed her double major in economics and political science this summer.

“This program helped me clarify my career goals by blending my theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. I found it provided invaluable resources, connections and opportunities far beyond my expectations. I encourage everyone to explore this program. For me it was truly an unforgettable and transformative experience!”

Aragon agrees. She’s a Russian and political science major on course to graduate in spring 2025.

Capitol Scholar Sierra Rose Aragon enjoys the sights of Washington, D.C., during summer 2024.

Courtesy Sierra Rose Aragon

“This program is more than just the internship,” she says. “This program exposes you to differing politicians, all three branches of government, a well-established network and more. You will finish this program with a different outlook on politics and how the government works. Even if you are hesitant, you should apply because it is an amazing opportunity!”

Along with personal benefits for its participants, the program has a broader goal for the community. According to the UAS website, it aims “to develop a network of intelligent, diligent, civic-minded UA System alumni who are passionate about serving the state of Alabama.”

The Capitol Scholars Program is open to students from the three UAS schools: UAH, The University of Alabama and The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Applicants must be:

• Enrolled in an undergraduate degree program and have earned at least 60 credit hours, or enrolled in a graduate or professional degree program,
• Graduating in spring 2025 or later,
• Interested in working in and around government, and
• Available to intern in Washington, D.C., in summer 2025 (mid-May to June).

Applicants will be evaluated on merit, including academic excellence, leadership and commitment to national, state and local community service. Housing and a stipend to defray additional cost-of-living expenses will be provided during the program.

Visit the UAS website, University of Alabama System , for more information on the Capitol Scholars Program, including registration for the Sept. 10 Zoom interest meeting.