Clanton student John Elder forwent a traditional summer and followed his passion for political systems and interest in freedom to Live, Learn and Intern(r) in the nation’s capital.

Elder was selected for a competitive spot at the Institute on Comparative Political and Economic Systems from an impressive pool of applicants from around the world. ICPES is an educational program offered by The Fund for American Studies in partnership with Georgetown University. Elder just completed his 2nd year at the University of Alabama with a major in finance.

Elder arrived in D.C. in June along with thousands of other students from across the country. Unlike so many other interns, he did not spend his days making coffee and running errands. Elder got much more out of his summer in Washington, D.C.

For the past eight weeks, Elder has gained valuable professional experience interning at the US Department of Labor, networking with professionals and taking classes at Georgetown University. On top of this, ICPES students have attended panels and discussions with experts on topics such as the African conundrum and climate change. Exclusive briefings at the White House, U.S. Capitol, State Department, CIA, Federal Reserve and various embassies rounded up this unique internship opportunity.

“Joining The Fund for American Studies program was one of the best decisions of my life,” noted William Shaughnessy, an ICPES intern from Mercer College. “I have learned so much, seen some amazing things and established relationships with people that will last for many years to come.”

The Egalitcheff Institute on Comparative Political and Economic Systems is a summer program that prepares undergraduate students for the fields of politics, public policy and international affairs. ICPES is sponsored by the Fund for American Studies, a Washington, D.C. educational nonprofit with four internship programs for college students administered in partnership with Georgetown University. Visit www.TFAS.org www.TFAS.org to learn more.

– from staff reports