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Civil Service Internships Bring Benefits to the Federal Government

Mon Jul 6, 2009 2:38pm EDT
Agencies Utilize Interns to Develop Human-Capital Pipeline

WASHINGTON, July 6 /PRNewswire/ -- As the nation's college students search for
career opportunities in today's increasingly competitive job market, many are
shifting their interest from Wall Street to Pennsylvania Avenue.  A recent
survey conducted by The Washington Center for Internships and Academic
Seminars (TWC) found 69 percent of students are more inclined to choose a
career in public service.

This drastic increase creates a number of benefits for Federal Government
agencies.

"With baby boomers getting ready to retire from government service, agencies
can utilize internships to eliminate 'brain drain' and fill vacant positions
with qualified, trained personnel," said Jennifer Clinton, Chief Operating
Officer of TWC. "Plus, interns bring new ideas, technological skills, and many
can be hired for full-time positions directly through the Student Career
Employment Program."

As one of the largest internship and education organizations in the United
States, TWC placed more than 800 interns at hundreds of companies, non-profits
and government agencies in the DC area this summer. As the unemployment rate
rises, so does interest in internships with TWC, climbing more than 20 percent
with the greatest rise at Federal agencies.

"It is very encouraging that this generation wants to work in government to
help solve our country's tough economic challenges", said Norman Y. Mineta,
former U.S. Secretary of Transportation.

"In essence, they want to get involved because they can make a difference,"
added Mineta. "And, there has never been a better time for the government to
show this generation all that it has to offer."

TWC offers students and agencies an exceptional experience by providing the
infrastructure necessary for a successful internship. Not only does TWC
provide housing, academic classes, and a series of career seminars, it
educates the students on what will be required of them at their current
position.

ABOUT THE WASHINGTON CENTER

The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars is an independent,
nonprofit organization that serves hundreds of colleges and universities in
the United States and other countries by providing selected students
challenging opportunities to work and learn in Washington, D.C. for academic
credit. The largest program of its kind, The Washington Center has close to
40,000 alumni who have become leaders in numerous professions and nations
around the world. It was established in 1975. For more information on The
Washington Center, visit: www.twc.edu.


SOURCE  The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars

Greg O'Brien of Epic Media Relations, +1-703-299-3406,
g.obrien@epicmediarelations.com



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