Democracy Camp in Berkeley

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Democracy Camp Journals

Program Overview

  • Students participate in a series of meetings with local and state leaders and gain exposure to different facets of public service: legislative paths, community organizations, local and state government, legal fields, research, and philanthropy.
  • Students have opportunities to expand their network and form meaningful connections with each other and with public service professionals (many of whom are Cal alumni).
  • The program provides professional development and skill-building workshops, such as a resume workshop, networking practice, and more.
  • Participants go on a field trip to Sacramento and meet with professionals in the state capital.

Program Dates

Democracy Camp in Berkeley takes place during UC Berkeley's spring break (Monday, March 25 – Thursday, March 28, 2024). Students are expected to attend a mandatory orientation and may also be invited to attend additional program activities in the first half of the spring semester (more information will be shared with accepted program participants prior to the start of the semester).

Eligibility

  • Open to all majors and years, including freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors who will graduate in May 2024, as well as transfer students.
  • This is a fully in-person program; students must be enrolled at UC Berkeley in Spring 2024.
  • Students are required to attend a cohort welcome event and mandatory orientation during the spring semester.

Cost

There is no cost to participate in Democracy Camp. The program covers meals for all four days, transit to Sacramento, as well as learning materials. Personal expenses, such as spring break housing and professional clothing, are not covered by the program.

Is this program right for me?

  • Democracy Camp in Berkeley is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career in public service at the local or state level, both in government and in non-government sectors (non-profits, research and academia, legal fields, etc.).

  • This program is particularly useful to underclassmen and first-year transfer students who are discerning their career goals. Students learn about campus public service opportunities, including internship programs and research opportunities.

  • Depending on the expressed interests of the incoming cohort, students may also have opportunities to learn about graduate/professional school.