For Kiara, The Washington Center's (TWC) Capitol Immersion Program was more than a week in the nation's capital; it was a turning point.
As a junior studying political science and legal studies at St. John Fisher University, she arrived in Washington with a passion for addressing student homelessness and chronic absenteeism. What she discovered was something transformative: a network of peers and professionals who helped her see that her aspirations weren't just idealistic—they were achievable.
"The most rewarding part of Capitol Immersion was connecting with my peers and hearing about their many differing or similar aspirations," Kiara reflects. "Additionally, the panel discussions were incredibly impactful. The speakers didn't just share their career journeys, but they demystified their roles and made them feel attainable."
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
My goal is to help young people, especially those from marginalized communities, recognize the value of education and access opportunities that foster upward mobility.
What was the most rewarding element of Capitol Immersion?
The speaker’s openness and authenticity helped me see that success in these fields isn't about having all the answers, but about being curious, adaptable and committed to growth. I left the program with a clearer understanding of the career possibilities aligned with my degree and a stronger sense of confidence in my own professional direction.
How will you apply this experience to the next steps in your professional career?
This experience taught me the importance of resilience and reframing rejection as redirection. As cliche as it may sound, I now understand that every detour can lead to new opportunities, deeper learning, and unexpected growth. Capitol Immersion emphasized the value of networking, in policy work where issues often overlap, collaboration is key. I plan to be more intentional about building connections, seeking mentorship and staying open to roles that challenge me to think beyond my comfort zone. I'm now more confident in taking initiative in my career by actively seeking opportunities that align with my interests, while also recognizing the value of skills gained from experiences that may not directly match my long-term goals.
Was there a particular moment, discussion, visit or speaker that really stood out to you?
One of the standout moments for me was the discussion on lobbying and advocacy. It challenged my assumptions and revealed how impactful these roles can be. This field is about understanding people's needs, building trust, and using strategic communication to influence policy for the greater good. I appreciated learning how one must connect with others on both logical and emotional levels to drive meaningful change.
Would you recommend this program to others? Why or why not?
I would definitely recommend this program to others who have an interest in policy. Not only would you be in D.C., but immersed in an experience that provides clarity on those next steps. Oftentimes there's that uncertainty of what we can achieve with a degree but this program through conversations with professionals and peers help you discover your potential and possible steps to take to get there. Overall, Capitol Immersion helped me connect the dots between my academic interests and real-world impact, and I think it can do the same for others.
Ready to Discover Your Path in Washington, D.C.?
The Washington Center's accelerated programs connect students and young professionals with career-defining opportunities in Washington, D.C. – all in one week or less. Through direct access to industry leaders, hands-on professional development and meaningful networking, participants gain clarity about their future and build connections that open doors. See our upcoming programs.
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