California Senate Fellows program now accepts applications

SACRAMENTO – Applications for the 2019-2020 California Senate Fellows program are being accepted until Monday, Feb. 11, at 5 p.m. The program provides college graduates an opportunity to become full-time Senate staff members at the State Capitol in Sacramento for 11 months beginning in October 2019. Fellows are assigned to the personal or committee staff of a senator and also participate in academic seminars with senators, senior staff, journalists, lobbyists and state government officials. The fellowship program is jointly sponsored by the California State Senate and the Center for California Studies at California State University Sacramento.

Fellows are paid a stipend of $2,698 per month plus health, vision and dental benefits. They earn six units of graduate credit from the Sacramento State Political Science Department.

"When you are trying to get your foot in the door, one of the best ways to gain knowledge of the legislative process is working as a fellow," California state Sen. Brian Jones said. "The fellowships provide an extraordinary opportunity to build network, make a difference in the Legislature and learn new skills."

Former Senate Fellows include current members of Congress and the California Legislature, judges and numerous other elected officials and community leaders.

Responsibilities include helping develop legislative proposals, researching and analyzing bills, responding to constituent inquiries, writing press releases and speeches and performing other delegated tasks.

Anyone who will be at least 20 years of age and a graduate of a four-year college or university and meets the GPA qualification by Sept. 1, is eligible to apply. There is no preferred major. Individuals with advanced degrees and those in mid-career are encouraged to apply.

For more information, or to apply, visit the Senate Fellows website at http://www.csus.edu/calst/senate or call (916) 278-6906.