[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 15 (Tuesday, January 31, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S205]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE UNI-CAPITOL WASHINGTON INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME

 Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the Uni-
Capitol Washington Internship Programme, UCWIP. Our Nation has 
benefited from the service of outstanding Australian college students 
who participate in internships throughout the U.S. Congress through 
this program.
  The program is providing students with the opportunity to obtain 
considerable experience through their congressional internships, while 
also making available other educational experiences throughout their 
time in the United States. Uni-Capitol Washington Programme interns 
have helped me serve Idaho constituents, and I am grateful for their 
efforts and dedication.
  Chris Colalillo, a UCWIP participant, has joined my staff as an 
intern this semester. Chris is studying bachelor's of law and arts at 
the University of Western Australia, where he is double majoring in 
political science and international relations and ancient history. When 
he graduates, Chris plans to work in a law firm and eventually go into 
Federal or State politics. Chris has been great to work with, and he 
was very quick to learn his role and responsibilities in the office. He 
is very intelligent, eager, and always puts forward his best work. He 
has shared with us some of the political and cultural differences 
between the United States and Australia, and it has been a great 
learning experience for both Chris and the staff.
  Chris shared his impressions regarding the program and his 
internship. He said:

       The UCWIP has been a unique opportunity to further my 
     knowledge in the legislative process of the United States, 
     enabling me to develop an appreciation for democratic systems 
     of government as well as providing me with practical 
     experience that will facilitate my theoretical studies in 
     Political Science and International Relations. The welcoming 
     nature of the staff within Senator Crapo's office has made 
     this internship an enjoyable experience thus far.

  Eric Federing, UCWIP's director and founder, has successfully focused 
his Capitol Hill and Australia experiences to provide this valuable 
educational exchange opportunity that benefits Australian students and 
congressional offices. His dedication to advancing this learning 
experience is remarkable.
  I have been honored to have worked with the Uni-Capitol Washington 
Internship Programme for 5 years. The program is shaping young leaders 
who are helping to deepen understanding between our two nations while 
providing outstanding constituent support. I commend Chris Colalillo, 
Eric Federing, and the other Uni-Capitol Washington Internship 
Programme participants and interns for their achievements and wish them 
continued success.

                          ____________________