Bola Olaniyan ’11, M.S. ’15 will be serving as program director for the Wisconsin in Washington, DC Internship program, offered through International Academic Programs (IAP). The program gives students the opportunity to apply to an internship of their choosing and study domestic or international issues as part of a summer- or semester-long domestic study away program.
In her role as program director, Olaniyan will teach the Public Policy and Internship and Professional Development classes, administer various student services to program participants, and act as liaison to elective instructors, internship hosts, alumni, and other professionals connected with the program.
“The Wisconsin in Washington program is an opportunity for students to make connections and explore their interests,” said Olaniyan. “There are opportunities all over D.C. Most participants in the spring semester are from the political science and international studies majors. However, the program is open to students of all majors, and internship opportunities are available in a wide variety of fields.”
Olaniyan, who graduated from UW–Madison with a B.A. in French and English and an M.S. in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, is looking forward to creating additional opportunities for students through other Badger alumni in the D.C. area.
This new program combines the efforts of previous D.C. internship programs offered by the International Division and the Political Science Department, who remain core partners.
Students participating in the program during the spring or fall semesters will earn 12 UW–Madison credits, focusing on international or domestic issues. A summer option allows student to earn three credits while completing an internship. The program centers around the internship experience, which students will complete through partners from a variety of fields such as government branches and agencies; non-profits; policy, advocacy, and service organizations; media; marketing; historical sites and more. The spring semester program began on Wednesday, January 11.
Story by Steve Barcus