Navigating Washington D.C.: A Guide to Student Intern Housing Options
Finding suitable housing is a crucial step for students embarking on internships in Washington D.C. As many interns come from outside the D.C. area, this guide compiles suggestions from former interns of various organizations, including the United Nations Information Center (UNIC), to help incoming interns navigate the housing landscape.
University Housing Options
Several universities in and around D.C. offer housing options for interns, providing a structured environment and access to campus amenities.
The Catholic University of America
The Catholic University of America provides diverse housing options for guests, including interns. Residence hall rooms are available in single- and double-occupancy configurations. Furnishings include twin beds, desks, chairs, and closets or bureaus. Both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned residence halls are available to suit different preferences. Each floor has common, single-gender bathrooms. Study areas, vending machines, and lounges with televisions are also available in these buildings, creating a convenient and comfortable living environment.
Intern Housing Providers
Specialized intern housing providers offer accommodations designed specifically for students, often with convenient locations and included amenities.
WISH Housing
WISH housing is located in various Capitol Hill locations, providing easy access to the vibrant life of Washington, D.C. These locations offer a convenient base for interns working on the Hill or in other parts of the city.
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The Washington Center (TWC)
Located at 2807 Connecticut Avenue, NW, The Washington Center (TWC) provides housing for students participating in their programs, including the Penn’s Washington Semester program during the academic year. Living in TWC's furnished intern housing offers the opportunity to experience D.C. and connect with a built-in community of fellow interns.
Typically, interns live in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with three other interns, sharing a bedroom and bathroom with one roommate. The apartments are fully furnished, including beds, dressers, living room and dining room furniture, a washer/dryer in-unit, and a dishwasher. Kitchens are stocked with pots, pans, and cutlery. Essential items like a vacuum cleaner, mop, iron, and ironing board are also provided.
TWC’s housing services team ensures that residents have everything they need for a comfortable living experience. The TWC's intern housing is ADA accessible, and wheelchair-accessible apartments are available for students with disabilities.
International Student House
The International Student House (ISH) offers a unique living experience with breakfast and dinner included daily (excluding dinner on Saturdays). Note that no rebates are given for missed meals, and cooking is not allowed in the rooms.
All rooms are furnished with a desk, chair, lamp, single bed, dresser, and bookcase. Heating, air-conditioning, and 13 meals per week are included in the rates. A one-time bed linen set-up charge and an activity fee are assessed on the first invoice. Residents can bring their own towels or purchase them from the House. In shared rooms, roommates are typically from different countries, promoting cultural exchange. Men and women live in separate quarters with separate bathrooms.
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Elite Intern Housing
Elite Intern Housing provides an alternative to dorm-style intern housing in Washington D.C. They focus on providing superior locations, just steps from Congressional office buildings. All utilities are included, even WIFI and cable television.
Elite Intern Housing limits its offerings to a handful of high-end properties in prime locations, ensuring superior living conditions at well-maintained properties. All rowhouses have updated kitchens and bathrooms, and a monthly cleaning service is provided for the entire house (not just common areas). Maintenance support is available 24/7.
Elite Intern Housing recognizes that a dorm-style approach may not suit everyone. Their properties are spacious row-houses with low occupancy. Bedrooms are primarily private single bedrooms with private bathrooms en suite (inside the bedroom), and most have TVs for streaming. A limited number of double bedrooms with a shared bathroom are available.
Apartment Options
The Aria on L
The Aria on L is a 60-unit property built in 2014, offering modern, high-end luxury apartment homes. These spacious one- and two-bedroom floor plans feature in-unit washer/dryers and high-speed wireless internet. It is Capitol Hill's first and only residential & learning complex, conveniently located in Capitol Hill North/NoMa.
The Aria consists of 60 total units spread out over 40,000 sq ft. This property holds up to 175 residents and has nearly 6,000 sq ft of programming, educational, and multi-purpose space. The building features 46 1bd/1ba units and 14 2bd/2ba units, each with its own washer/dryer combo and private outdoor balcony. Its corner location and free-standing structure provide ample natural light. The building also offers multiple outdoor and indoor areas for residents to connect.
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Location Considerations
Location is a key factor when choosing intern housing in Washington D.C. Proximity to internship sites, public transportation, and amenities can significantly impact the overall experience.
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is a popular location for interns, especially those working on the Hill. It offers easy access to the U.S. Capitol, Senate and House office buildings, the Supreme Court, and the Library of Congress. The area is also known for its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to attractions like the Washington Monuments, Union Station, and downtown D.C.
Elite Intern Housing, for example, boasts properties on the first residential block from the U.S. Capitol and the Supreme Court. The Patriot is located in the trendy H Street Corridor area of Capitol Hill, known for its vibrancy.
Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle is another desirable location, offering a mix of residential and commercial areas. It is well-connected to the rest of the city via the Dupont Circle Metro station and is home to numerous shops and restaurants.
Elite Intern Housing offers properties in Dupont Circle, steps from the Circle itself and within two residential blocks of the metro station. The Executive is located in the heart of Dupont Circle.
Falls Church, VA
Some housing options may be located outside of D.C., such as in Falls Church, VA. While this may require a commute, it can offer a more affordable alternative.
Cost Considerations
The cost of intern housing in Washington D.C. can vary significantly depending on the location, type of accommodation, and included amenities.
The Washington Center (TWC). The license fee for individuals wishing to share a double room for summer 2000 is $180/per week, per person with a minimum stay of eight weeks. Single rooms may be requested for an additional $50/week. The license fee includes all utilities including telephone, cable, and access to a computer room.
All-inclusive options starting as low as $1250/mo
Additional Tips
- Research thoroughly: Explore all available options and compare costs, locations, and amenities.
- Read reviews: Look for reviews from former interns to get insights into the living experience.
- Consider your priorities: Determine what is most important to you (e.g., location, privacy, amenities) and choose housing that aligns with your needs.
- Book in advance: Popular housing options can fill up quickly, so book your accommodation as early as possible.
- Ask questions: Don't hesitate to contact housing providers with any questions you may have.
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