The Fellowship Experience

The Congressional Fellowship Program gives individuals with superior training an opportunity to learn about the legislative process through direct participation. By working for nine months on congressional staffs, APSA Congressional Fellows gain practical insight into the legislative process.

• Congressional Office Assignments
  Fellows secure their own office assignments by interviewing for positions with the offices and committees of their choice. Fellows are encouraged to switch mid-way through the year to experience both the House and the Senate.
  
  
• Congressional District Trip
  The weeklong trip provides an opportunity to interact with Members and to differentiate between their governance and electoral roles.
  
  
• Fellowship Enrichment Programs 
  
  
• Closing Reception
  The end of the year Closing Reception, traditionally held in the Mansfield Room of the U.S. Capitol, honors each departing class. The presence each year of a dozen or so senators and representatives serves as testament to the work Fellows have rendered to the Congress.
  
  
• Fellowship Evaluations
  From the beginning, each class of Fellows has evaluated both the fellowship and the congressional office assignment. Although the level of candor varies, the latter have become an invaluable resource for Fellows in assessing potential job offers.

See also: Fellowship Terms and Conditions.