Each year, spring in Washington means two things — the bloom of the city’s iconic cherry blossom trees, and a new cohort of Bauer in D.C. students getting hands-on experience working in the nation’s capital.

The signature fellowship gives a handful of C. T. Bauer College of Business upperclassmen the opportunity to gain internship experience, while simultaneously completing their University of Houston coursework remotely. By relocating away from their familiar Bauer College environment, Fellowship Director Colleen Davies said the immersive experience opens students up to a new realm of career possibilities.

“We are trying to instill a love of public service in our business students and really showcase that a career in government is a possibility for them,” Davies said. “It's often not a genre of work that they think of. Bauer in D.C. tries to showcase that we need talented people of all backgrounds and skill sets that can make a difference in the lives of our nation.”

Bauer in D.C. Fellows are required to secure their own internship for the semester, but they aren’t restricted directly to government roles. Throughout the years, Fellows have interned for nonprofits, think tanks and in traditional political offices. No matter what realm a student is interested in, Davies said they encourage students to pursue their passions while living in Washington, D.C.

"It never fails that I get a student who completely changes the trajectory of what they want to do with their life,” Davies said. “That's what education does, which is so amazing to be a part of."

Finance junior Zoya Mohiuddin, who is interning at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, was inspired to apply for the fellowship because she wanted to discover a new side to finance. She said she looks forward to learning how the policy experience differs from her business background and felt reassured by the program’s strong alumni base.

“I knew I'd have support and that I had people to reach out to for help,” Mohiuddin said. “That was something that encouraged me to apply. I wanted to experience something new, and this was a great opportunity to do that.”

Meet the Spring 2026 Fellows

Nancy Egharevba (Junior)

“I’m thrilled to spend the spring semester in Washington, D.C., where I look forward to immersing myself in the fast-paced world of political media, and gaining professional experience in such a dynamic city. Personally, I’m looking forward to spending my weekends exploring the National Mall and visiting the many Smithsonian museums to deepen my understanding of American history and the arts.”

Rashwinder Kaur (Junior)

“I will intern this semester with Third Way, a national think tank and advocacy organization recognized for advancing pragmatic, center-left policy ideas and countering political extremism. Working on the Internal Communications team, I will support efforts that connect policy research, strategic advocacy and organizational messaging, helping ensure clarity and alignment across Third Way’s work on issues such as economic opportunity, justice reform and democratic governance.

My goal for the semester is to explore and experience Washington, D.C. while gaining firsthand exposure to the nation’s legal system and the policy environment that shapes it.”

Ramsha Khan (Senior)

“I’m interning on Capitol Hill with Congressman Morgan Luttrell, representing the 8^th District of Texas. He serves in the House Armed Services Committee, the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on Veterans Affairs.

My goal this semester is to understand how the government process works, and open a new skill set that I have not been able to gain through business classes. I want to push myself and see the different possibilities there are in the government.”

Maria Masood (Senior)

“I will intern this semester with the World Affairs Council of America as a Business Administration and External Relations intern. WACA is a nonprofit organization with the goal of strengthening the global perspective and engagement of its communities.

My goal for the semester is to ensure my exposure to foreign relations and build my understanding of the intersection between politics and technology.”

Zoya Mohiuddin (Junior)

“I will intern this semester with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation in the Civics Department. The Civics program focuses on strengthening civic education and engagement through research, programming, and partnerships that promote an informed and active citizenry. Through this internship, I will support initiatives related to civic participation, democratic institutions, and public education.

My goal for the semester is to develop a broader understanding of public policy, civic initiatives and how organizations contribute to democratic processes.”

Smeet Parekh (Junior)

“I will intern in the U.S. House of Representatives in the office of House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (LA-01), a senior House leader focused on managing floor strategy and advancing the majority’s legislative agenda rather than presiding over committees.

One professional goal I have is to study how bills move from idea to whip check to floor action.”

Applications are now open for the Spring 2027 Bauer in D.C. Fellowship.