Deadline Extended! 2023 Government & Nonprofits Trek to Washington D.C., March 14-17, 2023
The Government & Nonprofit trek to Washington, DC and Annapolis, MD is an opportunity for Amherst College students to explore the wide range of meaningful work in the government and nonprofit sectors.
This select group of students will spend Spring Break visiting organizations, agencies, and other sites to meet with alumni and other leaders working in politics, public policy, advocacy and lobbying, community organizing, international development, and direct social service.
Because of the generosity of our alumni and Loeb Center sponsorship, we are able to offer this program (including lodging, meals, and transportation to/from Amherst College) at no cost to students.
Selected students for this trek will:
• Develop a better understanding of the landscape of public service, politics, and legislation on the local, state, and federal level
• Gain exposure to the key trends, issues, challenges, and opportunities in the nonprofit sector
• Learn about the wide variety of internships, jobs, and careers in the government and nonprofit sectors
• Make connections with alumni and other leaders who are making a difference through their involvement in public service, government, politics, and mission-driven organizations
Required qualifications:
• Sophomores, juniors, and seniors
• Demonstrated interest in exploring careers in nonprofit and government
Program expectations:
• Mandatory participation in the pre-departure orientation session, scheduled for Monday, February 27, 2023.
• Completion of readings and/or pre-departure homework assignments
• Full engagement in all facilitated group discussions, conversations with alumni, and visits to government and nonprofit sites
• Participation in a post-trip debrief session
• Those accepted into the program will need to sign a contract committing to the program.
How to apply:
Apply through Handshake with your resume and a letter of interest. The letter of interest should include responses to the following:
• Why does a career in the government and/or nonprofit sectors interest you?
• What current economic, social, political, cultural, etc. issues or problems most concern/interest you and why?
• What would you hope to learn about the nonprofit and government sectors that you do not already know?
• How do you imagine that this trek might impact your career exploration or decision-making?
• Characterize your “typical” role and contributions in group/team environments and provide an example of a time you made a positive impact in a team environment.
Applications will be screened. Selected applicants will be invited to participate in a group interview in November.
Questions? Contact Micah Owino, Program Director for Careers in Government & Nonprofits, mowino@amherst.edu.