LEWISTON – Christina Rivard of Auburn, a student at Bates College, is participating in the Washington semester program.

Juniors are offered a number of off-campus study programs for an academic year or a semester. Such programs provide opportunities for academic study, research and cultural experience not readily available on campus.

Administered by American University, the Washington semester provides a variety of thematic programs coupled with internships. Residence in the nation’s capital allows students to study and research firsthand the policies and processes of the federal government, nongovernmental organizations and the private sector. Students may concentrate in such areas as American politics, the arts, foreign policy and economic policy.

Rivard, a junior sociology major, is a 2001 graduate of Edward Little High School. She is a member of the women’s outdoor track and cross country teams. Rivard is the daughter of Gilbert and Elaine Rivard.