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This program didn’t just teach me about policy, it has fundamentally transformed the way I think and consider ideas and arguments!
Charlotte Yew, Duke in DC (Spring 2025)
What was your favorite memory from your study away experience?
My favorite memory from being in DC was celebrating Lunar New Year at the Singapore embassy. As an international student, it can be tough being away from home during significant cultural moments. But being in DC, just two metro stops away from the embassy, I got the incredible opportunity to connect with fellow Singaporeans and celebrate in a familiar and meaningful way. I even had the chance to speak with Singapore’s ambassador to the U.S., Mr. Lui Tuck Yew. That night, I made new friends—other Singaporean students studying in the DMV area—and it really made DC feel like home.
Beyond just the Duke cohort, I found community in so many ways here—through work, other Singaporeans, and even just in the neighborhood. DC is a place where people from all over the U.S. and the world come together, and that night at the embassy was a beautiful reminder of that.
Where were your favorite places in DC?
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DC is the perfect balance between city life and calm charm—it never feels too overwhelming, and there’s something for everyone. The Georgetown neighborhood was definitely a favorite; its cafes and shops are adorable, and walking along the water there is always peaceful. Catching a Washington Capitals game is also a fun experience (even if you’re not into sports!).
For studying, Cafe Riggs was unbeatable—it’s historic, stylish, and somehow makes you feel more productive. For a sweet treat, Rose Avenue’s Mango Matcha and donuts are my go-to. And when I needed a break from the city, I managed to take day trips to Old Town Alexandria or even Harper’s Ferry in West Virginia—both so scenic and grounding.
Georgetown Waterfront Park, which overlooks the (now frozen) Potomac River.
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We had the privilege of hearing from Attorney General and Duke alumnus Brian Schwalb!
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We went on a class outing to the Capital One Hall to watch the musical Come From Away!
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The Duke in DC program allows students to complete an internship whilst taking four fully immersive policy and politics classes.
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Class outing at Capital One Arena to watch the Washington Capitals!
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Why did you decide to do Duke in DC?
I chose the Duke in DC program because I had recently declared my Public Policy major, which requires a policy-related internship. While most students complete this over the summer, the Duke in DC program allows you to fulfill that requirement during the spring semester while also taking four relevant classes. This opened up my summer for other professional experiences and ultimately helped me secure an impactful internship.
In fact, my spring internship experience came up in my summer internship interview, and being in DC demonstrated my genuine commitment to public policy and current affairs. The academic structure of the program—especially the opportunity to take a core policy class—also made it a smart and efficient decision for my major.
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How did the program help you grow?
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Before this program, my understanding of American politics and policy was mostly theoretical. But being immersed in DC gave me a front-row seat to the complexity and nuance of how things really work. Through my internship, guest lectures, class discussions, and just being physically close to institutions like the White House and Capitol Hill, I saw firsthand how many stakeholders, tradeoffs, and constraints come into play in policymaking. It taught me to approach political analysis with more nuance and less absolutism. Now, I find myself questioning and thinking more critically when I consume news or political commentary. This program didn’t just teach me about policy, it has fundamentally transformed the way I think and consider ideas and arguments!
What advice do you have for future students?
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Do it! This program is an incredible opportunity to expand your horizons, especially if you're passionate about public policy and want to understand how the U.S. government influences both domestic and global affairs. Beyond academics, you’ll have once-in-a-lifetime experiences—like tours of the Pentagon, the White House, world-class museums, and sporting events. DC is vibrant and full of opportunities. And thanks to the district’s location, weekend trips to places like New York, Boston, or Philadelphia are super convenient.
Make the most of every moment, talk to as many intelligent and interesting people as you can, and immerse yourself fully in all that DC has to offer!