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You’ve done the work having submitted countless applications, gone through multiple rounds ofÌýinterviews, and even played the dreaded waiting game as you wait to hear from your dreamÌýinternship role in DC! As exciting as it may seem, you will need to hit the ground runningÌýto set yourself up for the best summer possible!Ìý

Easily the greatest hurdle in having an awesome time working in DC is finding housing for theÌýsummer. Major cities are notorious for having expensive and costly housing, and DC is noÌýdifferent. The capital is extremely small, and everyone feels it when it comes to finding a placeÌýto stay. You may even be unsure of how to find a place to stay for just three months of the year.ÌýBecause of the massive influx of student interns every summer many places offer flexibleÌýsummer leases, allowing you to pay rent for just three months of the year.ÌýÌý
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Another great option is to search online forums for colleges and universities in the area. Some universities offer reduced rate housing in the summer and many students who sign year-long leases sublease their apartments from June to August—months that they go home. I found great success in making anonymous postings on forums for each university of the area, and had an excess of options! Because of how small DC is, and the major commuter culture, you can also look to rent in Virginia and Maryland, as these properties are often cheaper. Just be sure to look up your commute on your GPS before you close a deal!Ìý
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Another major challenge for many students comes as they look to their wardrobes. DC is a hubÌýof working professionals in both government and industry, so finding a business professional wardrobe for ten weeks can become quite expensive. I recommend assessing what you have first. You likely already have a pair of slacks and khakis; many students may have a nice sweater or two. Learn to be creative and mix and match! I leaned into a lot of solid colors, and a lot of neutrals. Think navy blue, black, white, and maybe a pop of one or two other colors. This really makes your closet stretch and saves you tons. For anything you may want to add to your wardrobe, consider hitting a thrift shop or even look at secondhand apps online. There are lots of good deals and great quality to be found.Ìý

Looking beyond housing and wardrobe, one of the most important things you can do during your time in DC is network, network, network! DC is unique in the sheer number of working professionals, present and future leaders, and policy makers alike, all bringing unique experiences and perspectives. Hardly any city compares to this wealth and breadth of opportunity. You must shoot your shot! Keep an ear to the street for professional meet ups and networking events, especially ones aimed at young and early career professionals. Don’t shy away from introducing yourself to colleagues in your workplace and don’t be afraid to set up a quick coffee chat, which is a great way to hear from people who’ve been in your shoes and have seen it through! Many are more than willing to share great advice! And be sure to make ample use of DC during and after your time in LinkedIn—this is how you stay in touch! These connections can be useful in answering future career questions or even serving as a reference or recommendation if you do the job well!Ìý

A summer interning in DC is an incredible opportunity for professional exposure and experienceÌýand the opportunity to see what life is like in such a fast-paced and unique city. By looking at (and securing) housing early, curating your professional, yet affordable wardrobe, and making aÌýsplash at networking events, you can set yourself up for a successful and memorable threeÌýmonths!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ÃÛÌÒapp Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –ÌýÌýto pitch your idea and get started! 

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