Valerie Reed ('07): “The American University Washington Semester Program is undoubtedly one of the best programs in the country for fostering intellectual development and career aspirations as an undergraduate student. In the Foreign Policy Program we progressed through the semester by first learning conceptual approaches and then applying them to regional areas of concern. Each week we were addressed by leaders in the field, such as Senator Richard Lugar, Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Ambassador Joseph Wilson, author of the New York Times editorial on pre-war intelligence on Iraq. We also visited think tanks, government offices, and embassies, among other places. My internship during the semester at the U.S. House of Representatives International Relations Committee was equally beneficial. I was able to learn about and be involved in the policy process of key current issues such as Darfur conflict resolution, United Nations reform, and human trafficking. My duties included managing hearings, drafting correspondence, researching issues and legislation, and even composing a floor speech. The networking potential at AU and my internship was incredible. The experiences I had in D.C. and the knowledge I acquired during this semester are priceless. I would enthusiastically recommend this program to any undergraduate with interests in politics or related fields.” (Internship: U.S. House of Representatives International Relations Subcommittee on Africa, Global Human Rights, and International Operations.)
