Bowdoin Public Service in Washington

The interdisciplinary Bowdoin Public Service (BPS) in Washington program is designed to provide a small cohort of current sophomores with the opportunity to delve into topics around government and public policy work in Washington, D.C.

Students meet with Rep Chellie Pingree in her office

BPS 2024 cohort poses in the State Department holding a Bowdoin flag

Students meet in a gathering space with female speakers

Ambassador Pickering meets with BPS 2024 cohort

We seek curious students who want to actively engage in learning about government function and policy implementation at the federal level.

Students from all academic and life backgrounds are encouraged to apply. No coursework or prior policy experience is required. There is no cost to participate in this program.

Applications are now open for the Spring 2025 cohort. The deadline is October 25, 2024, at 12 noon. Apply Now

The Program

Starting in January, selected BPS in Washington participants will meet for a weekly 1.5 hour seminar to engage in topics in public service. In addition to the three branches of government, topics might include foreign policy and diplomacy, economic policy, national security, international development, and campaigns. These seminars will bring in Bowdoin faculty, alumni and community members with expertise in government service, and will be facilitated by student leaders and the program director.

During the first week of spring break, programming will shift to Washington, D.C., where students will connect with elected, appointed and career government officials, as well as alumni and others working in NGOs with public policy initiatives. Participants will meet with alumni at all stages of their careers in public service. Meetings will take place at work sites all over Washington, D.C. and in downtown offices.