Poof, they are gone. From Capitol Hill, to Connecticut Avenue public affairs firms, to Associations, summer interns are returning to school. Even young people who wisely took intern programs while still looking for work are home now. Or in transitional roles.

According to the Washington Post this week – more than 250,000 interns descend on Washington every summer.  In fact, that influx increases the population by at least 5%. Washington has about 590,000 residents.

Washington internships are amazing proving grounds. Proving to oneself that "you can do it." Learning a work ethic before going into the real world helps immensely.

A few weeks ago, at a college reception for young and earnest folks heading-off, I met three amazing young people who started with summer internships and stayed!

Three experiences as interns lead to real jobs:
- One at the Federal Reserve – now has a job writing banking policy and financial reform measures
- A second is in federal disaster recovery management – writing memos on Pakistan floods for U.S. Leaders
- Another works for Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) – and is now ensconced in his Senate office

My spring intern this year, Katie Rogers, went from blogging and helping our clients with tweets and social media, to a position at the Washington Post. She is now a Social Media Producer.

So – pay it forward. If you were an intern or were mentored, offer help to someone just getting started.