LEARNING IN D.C.

Boilers Go to D.C. (BGDC) is an experiential learning program to study up close the historic interconnections of political communication, government, news media, non-profits, and other influential organizations. During this course, participants meet and interact with Washington decision-makers and communicators and visit historic sites that changed the course of our nation. Students will learn about politics, and political communication, and develop fundamental media literacy including finding reliable news sources and deciphering media biases and motivations.

This course will include foundational career readiness and an innovative mentorship component in which students will be matched with a mentor from the Washington, D.C region to learn about career paths in a variety of fields and learn about living and working in DC. Students will also meet and connect with other Purdue alumni including C-SPAN Founder Brian Lamb.

Student Stories

Check out our Full Playlist to Learn about the tremendous impact of our Boilers Go to D.C. Programs:
https://bit.ly/BGDC_StudentStories

REQUIREMENTS

Boilers Go To D.C.
Politics and Communication Then and Now

Course Registration Information: Washington DC Practicum – COM 491 / POL 429 / HIST 302

Credits: 3.0 hours

Eligibility:

• Program is open to Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors who have not graduate prior to the start of the course.
• Full Time undergraduate student
• All majors welcome to apply

Admission Requirements

• A cumulative GPA of at least 2.3 and good standing (no probation) with the University
• Must currently be enrolled as an undergraduate student and not have graduated prior to the start of the course
• Applicant Interview

Must submit all of the following by the application deadline:

• Application
• Resume
• 1 Letter of Recommendation from a current Purdue University faculty member
• Cover letter
  • Explain your reasons and interest in participating in the course
  • List three goals you have for this course

LIVING IN D.C.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Students will stay in fully furnished apartments. Apartments are primarily two-bedroom, two-bath units with a shared common space of living room, kitchen and dining area. Cost of accommodations is covered by the course fee.

INSTRUCTORS

MENTOR A BOILER

The Boilers Go to D.C. Alumni Mentorship creates opportunities for Purdue University alumni in the Washington, D.C. region and students attending the Boilers Go to D.C. course to develop professional relationships that can help students find internships, learn about career paths, get professional advice, and prepare for a successful career in our nation’s capitol after graduation. This mentorship program is designed to be flexible yet impactful for both alumni and students.

If you would like to volunteer for the next Boilers Go to DC Alumni Mentorship, click the Mentor Form link below.

Questions? Contact us at centerforscpan@purdue.edu.