The Kentucky Society of Washington is accepting applications for its prestigious Henry Clay Internships in Public Policy in Washington, D.C. for the summer of 2013. The internships provide an outstanding opportunity for promising students from Kentucky colleges and universities to be placed in an office of a member of the Kentucky congressional delegation or an office of the executive branch. Each intern receives a $4,000 stipend for living expenses in Washington during the six to eight week summer internship. Applications should be submitted no later than January 31, 2013, and in accordance with the application procedures described on this website. Interviews will be in February 2013, and the internships awarded later that month.

The program is open to students at Kentucky colleges or universities who will be rising juniors or seniors at the time of the internship. They must have a serious interest in pursuing a career in public service for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The Kentucky Society selects interns who demonstrate superior academic achievements and intellectual development; effective oral and written communications skills; the ability to work well with others; outstanding trustworthiness and sound judgment; and strong initiative.

This scholarship is a great opportunity to live and work in the nation's capitol and previous interns have described them as life-changing experiences. A 2005 intern said, "In addition to the rich experience of the internship at Congressman Ben Chandler's Office, I had the opportunity to experience what it is like to live in a unique city like Washington DC where I got to meet so many motivated people and do so many different things I have never done before." Another intern stated that his experience in Washington was truly invaluable, not just for the tasks but for the impressive variety of people he met. "I interacted with senior Labor officials and interns from across the country... For a student of political science, Washington is the perfect place to spend a summer."

William Kyle Simon, a 2002 intern and now a First Lieutenant in the Army who has just returned from Iraq recommends the internship to anyone interested in politics and government. "Looking back, those few weeks were some of the best in my life and I'm forever grateful to the Kentucky Society and Senator Bunning's office for giving me the opportunity to witness the political process first hand. I had a great time outside the office as well, attending briefings, lectures, and enjoying some of the attractions the District and surrounding area had to offer. I've made friends I still keep, and began networking in Washington, which will hopefully help me down the road." A 2003 recipient said "My summer on the Hill equipped me with the experience, education, and networking skills I needed to thrive as a student and now as a young professional. Serving as a Henry Clay intern opened numerous doors and opportunities to me that would have otherwise been out of my reach."

Questions about the process may be directed to Don Bramer, Henry Clay Coordinator, at HenryClayInternship@kentuckysociety.org.