Seven Florida State University (FSU) students have begun their spring semester in Washington, D.C., as part of the university’s new FSU DC Study Away Program. The inaugural group—Rachel Armstrong, Gabriella Burke, Ryan Nutzman, Isabella Perez, Mickey Wagoner, Jonah Watson, and Mia Zamora—will participate in internships at congressional offices and other organizations while living in FSU-managed housing near the U.S. Capitol.
The university purchased two townhomes in 2025 to provide a supportive residential environment for students pursuing internships with agencies, advocacy groups, corporations, and government offices. The housing includes an on-site manager who assists students and communicates with the FSU Housing Office.
“This initiative is yet another great milestone for Florida State University,” said FSU President Richard McCullough. “The FSU network in Washington is strong, home to more than 7,500 alumni. By providing our students with housing options, they have even more support as they gain hands-on experience in the nation’s capital.”
The program is a joint effort among FSU’s Division of Student Affairs, Career Center, and University Housing. Students can apply for fall, spring or summer semesters and will have access to key political sites including both major party headquarters and congressional office buildings.
“We’re truly excited to offer this opportunity to our students, providing them safe, affordable housing to bolster their educational and professional journeys,” said Amy Hecht, vice president for Student Affairs. “Even though they’ll be farther from campus, they will remain deeply connected to Seminole spirit and community.”
Rachel Armstrong will intern for U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz during her time in D.C. “I am incredibly excited to immerse myself in Washington, D.C. and gain firsthand exposure to the federal policymaking process,” Armstrong said.
Jonah Watson is interning with U.S. Rep. Neal Dunn and emphasized the value of practical experience: “Being able to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to real-world work while also connecting with other FSU students and alumni in D.C. is something I’m especially excited about,” Watson said. “I think this program will be a great opportunity to grow professionally, expand my network and better understand how my field operates at the national level.”
Rob Liddell, assistant vice president for Career Services at FSU, noted that experiential learning such as internships helps students develop important skills needed after graduation—a focus that helped earn FSU a spot on The Princeton Review’s 2025 list of Top 20 Best Schools for Internships among public universities.
“Our top priority is accelerating student success,” Liddell said. “The DC Study Away Program is another way we strive to meet the expectations, goals and interests of our students.”
Mia Zamora will intern with Congresswoman Lois Frankel’s office this semester: “Interning in Washington, D.C. through the FSU DC Study Away Program is such an exciting opportunity for me,” Zamora said. “I’m looking forward to seeing how my background in political science and international affairs translates into real policy work and public service, and I cannot wait to represent my community in the heart of politics. I know we’re all so excited to start.”
Applications for participation in fall 2026 are due February 23rd; more information about applying can be found at career.fsu.edu/dc-study-away-program.