Emory vs. American University: Which Is Better for Political Internships?

For a student whose top priority is interning in federal government, Congress, think tanks, advocacy organizations, political media, or national policy nonprofits during the academic year, American University offers substantially more direct access. Its Washington, DC campus makes it practical to commute to internships while taking classes, and its School of Public Affairs is built around public service, policy, politics, and government careers.

American fits students who want politics to be part of their weekly college routine rather than mainly a summer pursuit. Proximity matters here: attending hearings, networking events, campaign activities, and employer information sessions is far easier when Capitol Hill, federal agencies, embassies, and major advocacy groups are nearby.

Emory is a compelling choice for a student who wants a more traditional private-university experience, rigorous political science study, and access to Atlanta’s state and regional policy world. Atlanta can support internships with Georgia state government, local government, voting-rights and civic organizations, public-health institutions, and nonprofits. Emory’s connections are particularly useful for students whose policy interests overlap with health, ethics, civil rights, business, or the South as a political region.

For national politics and policy specifically, however, Emory students will more often need to seek summer opportunities in Washington or use structured programs to spend time there. A student aiming for congressional offices, federal agencies, or DC think tanks from the first year onward would likely find American’s setting more advantageous.