DC Experience
Arrival and Orientation
You have some flexibility in the day you arrive. Your Washington Coordinator will conduct an orientation session, including a discussion on living together with other students as adults, working in Washington, an informational tour of the city, and a welcome dinner.
Living in DC
IIW is more than just an academic learning experience. You'll have many opportunities to enjoy the area and visit the cultural, historical, and recreational sites in and near Washington. Living independently, building and maintaining new personal and professional relationships, navigating a new city, experiencing a wealth of cultural opportunities… no doubt about it.
Illinois in Washington is a rewarding, maturing, and empowering experience.
Soaking in the Culture and History of Our Nation's Capitol
Yes, you'll get a brief tour of Washington when you first arrive. But the city is so steeped in cultural and historical landmarks that you could spend your whole time exploring and not get bored!
Most likely you and your fellow IIW students will get out to a number of places on your own—places such as:
- the JFK Center for Performing Arts,
- the National Air and Space Museum,
- the Vietnam Veterans Memorial,
- Mount Vernon,
- the Smithsonian National Zoological Park,
- the Washington National Cathedral,
- the Thomas Jefferson Memorial,
- Ford's Theatre,
- the Korean War Veterans Memorial,
- the Museum of Natural History,
- the Lincoln Memorial,
- the National Gallery of Art,
- the US Holocaust Memorial Museum,