VCU to offer Virginia capital semester

By Mike Frontiero
VCU School of Education

RICHMOND, Va. – Virginia Commonwealth University announced today that it will offer the Virginia Capital Semester -- a combined state government internship and policy-making seminar with corresponding course work -- beginning in January 2003. 

Qualified students from colleges and universities throughout the nation will have the chance to experience state government during the legislative session in Richmond while continuing their studies on a full-time basis at VCU for one semester.  The program is being offered by VCU's Department of Political Science and Public Administration.

"This program demonstrates what VCU is all about - bringing real world and classroom experiences together," said Ralph Hambrick, Ph.D., Virginia Capital Semester coordinator.  "The Capital Semester program capitalizes on VCU's proximity to the State Capitol, affording students across the Commonwealth a unique opportunity to simultaneously study and experience government."

The first-time program provides internships arranged with the legislative and executive branches of Virginia government, and with advocacy and lobbying organizations.

Students will participate in a weekly policy seminar to hear from key leaders at the Capitol and to compare internship experiences, earning three credits for the internship and three credits for the seminar. Students will take additional courses in areas that match their academic interests to achieve a full-time academic load. VCU will provide individual advising, assist in securing housing, and offer special events.

"This is a great opportunity for students across Virginia to get a first-hand look at how government really works," said Robert D. Holsworth, Ph.D., director of VCU's Center for Public Policy, who teaches a course on Virginia government and politics, and is recognized by the local and national news media for his political commentary.

A committee of VCU faculty members and state officials developed the Virginia Capital Semester to expand the opportunities for students to experience and study state government. 

The program is open to all undergraduate students regardless of major and graduate students on a case-by-case basis. Participants in the Virginia Capital Semester are selected by a committee of faculty members and state officials with preference given to students who will have advanced sophomore, junior or senior standing at the time of participation in the program. 

"We are excited about participating in this new program, and we believe that it will afford an excellent opportunity for the leaders of tomorrow to gain valuable experience and first-hand knowledge of the operations of the Virginia General Assembly," said Bruce Jamerson, clerk of the Virginia House of Delegates.

The deadline for applications is Nov. 15, 2002. Application forms are available on-line at www.vcu.edu/capitalsemester, or by calling Dr. Hambrick at 804/828-8053.