Launched in 2017, the Washington, DC Policy and Advocacy Fly-In is part of the UA School of Social Work’s Washington, D.C. Experiential Learning Program. The Fly-In is a two-day, in-depth experience in policy research, analysis, and advocacy. Students are trained in policy analysis and advocacy by experts from a variety of policy and advocacy organizations such as the National Association of Social Workers, the Council on Social Work Education, the Child Welfare League of America, and many others. Each student has two scheduled meetings with Congress members to advocate for specific legislation.
Since its inception, hundreds of students from schools including The University of Alabama, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, The University of Alabama at Huntsville, Alabama State University, Simmons University, and The Ohio State University have participated in this valuable experience.
Apply for the
Washington, D.C. Fly-In Program
Students can view the upcoming schedule here.
*The registration fee is $400.
Financial aid is available via an application process for students who have been accepted into the D.C. Fly-In program and are currently enrolled in one of the University of Alabama School of Social Work degree programs.
Doctoral Students –
Consider attending as a Pod Leader!
This year, DSW/PhD social work students are invited to apply as Pod Leaders instead of as standard student participants.
Please see our 2026 Washington DC Policy & Advocacy Fly-In page for more details
Spring Semester Training Overview
The Washington, DC Policy & Advocacy Fly-In includes spring-semester trainings to prepare all students, regardless of prior experience, for success in DC. All student meetings are virtual and will be held via Zoom. Through large-group sessions, small-group pods meetings, and conversations with legislative experts, students gain the knowledge and confidence to advocate effectively on Capitol Hill.
In January, students are introduced to the legislative process, the basics of an advocacy pitch, and begin working with their pods on assigned legislation.
In February, students meet with legislative experts, refine their pitches, and practice key professional skills such as introductions and responding to questions.
In March, students complete final practice sessions, polish their delivery, and finalize group strategy to ensure readiness for congressional visits.
By the time students arrive in Washington, DC, they will have the knowledge and practice needed to speak confidently about policy, collaborate effectively with peers, and engage professionally in meetings with congressional leaders.
This year, DSW/PhD social work students are invited to apply as Pod Leaders instead of as standard student participants.
Washington, D.C. Internship Financial Aid
Through the generosity of alumni, donors and The School of Social Work, the following scholarships and stipends are available for the Washington, DC program:
- The Washington Program Endowed Scholarship
- The Barbara and Russell Beaulieu Endowed Scholarship
- The Coy Stout Endowed Scholarship
- The Madeleine Hill Endowed Scholarship
- The School of Social Work Board of Friends Endowed Scholarship
- The Beaulieu Support Fund
- The Bradley Arant Boult Cummings Scholarship
- The Vulcan Materials Endowed Scholarship
- Vulcan Washington Fellows Scholarship
- The Gilead Foundation Scholarship
- School of Social Work Stipends
