D.C. Scholars Program

This is a newly constructed program for public and charter high school students in the District of Columbia committed to public service and learning more about the White House. The D.C. Scholars internship program is an unpaid part-time internship inside the Obama White House.

In addition to having a hands-on experience with government at the federal level, D.C. Scholars will also have an opportunity to attend a weekly lecture series led by White House staff, interact with college-aged White House interns, be paired with a mentor, and work on a summer service project.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, graduating from a public or charter D.C. high school in the spring of 2010, and 17 or 18 years old to participate in the program. The application will be posted during the winter of 2010.

See what some of our D.C. Scholars have to say about the program:

"Working in the Office of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs gives me the opportunity to serve in the office that functions as the link between the White House and local and state governments. Working in this department, I have the opportunity to work with and for some very exciting and notable staff."
— D.C. Scholar in the Office of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs

"As a D.C. Scholar, I have an amazing opportunity to intern in the White House Photo Office. I get a chance to help sort and edit historical photographs and snapshots during President Obama's Administration. This opportunity is one that I will never forget because I finally feel as if I can help others by using my talent."
— Photo Office D.C. Scholar

"Working in the Office of Correspondence as a D.C. Scholar has been an eye-opening experience. Every day I learn more about the views and problems facing Americans through mail sent to the President. It has been really interesting to be part of this new administration’s dedication to listening and responding to the American people."
— Office of Correspondence D.C. Scholar