Ann Arbor Times

Senior public nonprofit administration major and Presidential Scholar Jenna Tarzwell has initiated a new opportunity for Eastern Michigan University (EMU) students. She has paved the way for students to use their university scholarships to intern and earn college credit in Washington, D.C., through The Washington Center (TWC) program.

Tarzwell discovered TWC during an EMU Honors-sponsored volunteer event and was eager to end her academic career with a semester in the nation's capital. Throughout the 2023-24 academic year, she collaborated with Kristen Krug-Shaffer from Academic Travel Programs and honors dean Ann Eisenberg to apply her Presidential Scholarship towards TWC's program.

As a result of her efforts, EMU signed an affiliation agreement with TWC's Academic Internship Program. This agreement allows EMU students to apply their financial aid toward the cost of participating in TWC's program.

The Washington Center is known as the largest internship program in Washington, D.C., offering students internships along with educational experiences through seminars and hands-on learning activities. The program also assists with housing arrangements and internship placements.

This fall, thanks to the affiliation agreement and a John Dingell Scholars Award from Ford Motor Company, Tarzwell is interning at the Congressional Coalition of Adoption Institute (CCAI) while taking courses at TWC. In her role as a policy intern, she recently helped host an event for child welfare advocates on Capitol Hill.

“It was an honor to guide these honorees around Capitol Hill and help them share their stories,” said Tarzwell. “I am grateful that I advocated for opportunities for myself because now not only am I here in D.C., but other students...can apply to this program as well.”

Dean Ann Eisenberg commented on Tarzwell’s achievement: “Jenna fought hard to make it possible for students to take their EMU scholarships to TWC...she opened up a wealth of opportunities for other students.”

Kristen Krug-Shaffer acknowledged Tarzwell’s perseverance: “Although there were challenges along the way, Jenna was patient and understanding throughout...”

Students interested in similar opportunities can follow a process akin to studying abroad. An informational session led by Tarzwell will be held via Zoom on October 24 at 7 p.m.

For more information about The Washington Center or inquiries about participation, contact jtarzwel@emich.edu or aeisenbe@emich.edu.

Eastern Michigan University's Honors College offers intellectually talented students educational experiences within a large university setting. It provides opportunities that foster scholarly curiosity, leadership, civic engagement, and diversity appreciation among its members.