VCU news

By Mike Porter

Virginia Commonwealth University’s Virginia Capital Semester program allowed eight students to learn about the Virginia General Assembly and the legislative process. The program, coordinated through the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, allowed students to participate in internships with state lawmakers during the 2009 Virginia General Assembly session.

Each student was assigned to work with a delegate or senator, or was placed in the governor’s office. Students were required to complete at least 20 hours of work per week at the General Assembly and attend a weekly policy-making seminar that allowed students to reflect on the processes they witnessed during the work day.

“Students participating in the program are truly excited about the ‘real world’ experience the Virginia Capital Semester gives them,” said professor Jennifer Thompson, J.D., director of external relations for the Wilder School.

“This opportunity allows them to work hand in hand with legislators by writing and tracking legislation, meeting with constituents, performing legislative research and working day in and day out to find solutions that improve Virginians’ lives,” Thompson said. 
This year, VCU students were joined by 27 students from five other Virginia public and private colleges and universities. Over the past five years, 220 students, representing more than two dozen fields of study from 17 colleges and universities, have participated in the program. 

The following VCU students participated in the 2009 Virginia Capital Semester:
   
Senior Chris Jeffries, a political science major, who interned with Sen. Creigh Deeds, D-25th.
Senior Hugh Hart, a political science major, was assigned to Del. Kenneth Plum, D-36th. 
Junior Chris Matzke, a political science major, who worked with Del. Bill Janis, R-56th.
Sophomore Kate Lewanowicz, a political science major, interned with Sen. Stephen Martin, R-11th.
Junior Alexandra Beck, a political science major, was assigned to Del. Chris Peace, R-97th.
Junior Danielle Moise, a political science major, interned with Del. Joe May, R-33rd.
Junior James Hazlett, a homeland security major, worked with Del. Frank Hargrove, R-55th.
Freshman Kevin Herrity, international relations major, interned with Del. Tom Gear, R-91st.

“This was an amazing experience and has taught me so much about Virginia government,” Jeffries said.

Others said the experience will help them dedicate their careers to serving others.

“Witnessing the legislature in action really motivated me to continue to pursue a future in public service,” said Lewanowicz.

The application deadline to participate in next year’s Virginia Capital Semester is Oct. 1. To learn more, visit www.vcu.edu/capitalsemester.