Pittsburgh Review

This spring marks the 10-year anniversary of the Carnegie Mellon University Washington Semester Program (CMU/WSP), where students immerse themselves in the heart of Washington, D.C., for a unique educational experience.

The program, hosted by the Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology (CMIST), offers students the opportunity to take courses and gain professional experience in iconic locations such as the Supreme Court on Capitol Hill. James Summers, a participant in fall 2020, expressed his appreciation for the program, saying, “It’s a program unlike any other that CMU offers. You’re in the heart of Washington, D.C. You get to create memories and experiences that you won't have the opportunity to do with any other program.”

Over the past decade, the program has evolved to provide a balanced experience for students, with Emily Half noting recent modifications to course offerings. Haleigh Bartos, an associate professor of the practice at CMIST, emphasized the importance of professionalism in preparing students for their future careers, stating, "There are two sides to professionalism. You need the skill set to do the actual job, and then you also need the professional skill set to understand and navigate the operating environment."

Edward Wojciechowski, a participant in the first cohort in 2014, shared how the program helped him gain valuable skills that transcended his initial career interests. Wojciechowski reflected, “While I didn't end up working in international relations, I learned valuable skills that I could use in any career.”

Ashley Barnes, the Washington Program Manager, highlighted the transformative impact of the program on students, noting how it clarifies their career goals and provides momentum for future opportunities. Robert Summers-Berger echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the unparalleled exposure to the professional environment in Washington, D.C., saying, “If you really want to learn what it’s like to be a policy professional in the area, there is really no substitute.”

Zoe Kramer, who participated in fall 2023, expressed her profound gratitude for the program, stating, “Washington, D.C., has left an indelible mark on my education and growth as a person. This is without a doubt the best semester of my college career.”

As the CMU/WSP marks a decade of educational excellence, it continues to offer students a unique opportunity to explore and test drive their careers in the nation's capital, shaping their personal and professional growth along the way.