Fellowships

Cal-in-Sacramento Fellowship

Cal-in-Sacramento is one of the University of California’s largest and most prestigious campus-based public service internship programs. For the past five decades, hundreds of Cal students have gone to Sacramento under our auspices to gain first-hand experience in the most dynamic state capital in the country. Many of these students have gone on to careers in politics, government, and public service.

Program Overview

Cal-in-Sacramento Fellows enroll in a 3-unit course (PS 110B) during the spring semester.

Fellows move to Sacramento in late...

Democracy Camp

Democracy Camp is designed for Cal undergrads who are interested in enhancing our democracy through public service, and who are still discerning their unique pathway. Students can apply to one of two programs: Democracy Camp in Berkeley, the Matsui Center's alternative spring break program, or Democracy Camp in DC...

How to Apply to Cal-in-Sacramento

Application

The 2024 Cal-in-Sacramento application is due by Sunday, October 8 at 11:59pm. The application includes:

Brief questionnaire Three ideas for your summer internship Research topic proposal Two essay questions (250 words each) Resume Unofficial transcript(s) from all higher education institutions Optional: Supplemental application for one of four Cal-in-Sacramento Research...

Democracy Camp in DC

Program Overview A cohort of 15 undergraduate students travel to Washington, DC for a 9-day immersive experience in our nation’s capital. Students stay in shared housing at the UC Washington Center (UCDC), situated in the heart of DC, and have opportunities to explore the city and visit sites of cultural and historical significance. The program is designed for students who are interested in pursuing public service careers at the...

How to Apply to the Synar Fellowship

Application

The Synar Fellowship application is due by Sunday, November 26, 2023 at 11:59pm.

The application includes:

Brief questionnaire Dissertation synopsis Statement of Purpose (including a timetable for completion of dissertation, budget, and justification of need) CV Transcript Name of recommender (must be one of your Dissertation Advisors) Recommendation

All applicants are required to secure a recommendation from a Dissertation Advisor. Your recommender must submit a letter of recommendation via the...

Cal-in-Sac Research Fellowships

Research Fellowships

Cal-in-Sacramento Fellowship applicants are invited to apply to one of the following Research Fellowships, which provide additional summer funding in the amount of $2,500 for Cal-in-Sac Fellows. Research Fellowship applications are included in the Cal-in-Sacramento application form.

How to Apply to Democracy Camp

Application

The 2024 Democracy Camp application is due by Sunday, November 5 at 11:59pm.

The application includes:

Brief questionnaire One short answer section Two essay questions (250 words each) Resume Unofficial transcript(s) from all higher education institutions

Resume tips and sample resumes can be found on the Cal Career Center website.

NOTE: There is ONE application for both Democracy Camp in Berkeley and...

Democracy Camp in Berkeley

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...

How to Apply to Schaeffer Fellowship

Application

The 2024 Schaeffer Fellowship application is due by Sunday, October 8 at 11:59pm. The application includes:

Brief questionnaire Three ideas for your summer internship Two essay questions (250 words each) Resume Unofficial transcript(s) from all higher education institutions

Resume tips and sample resumes can be found on the Cal Career Center website.

Selection Process

Selected applicants will be invited to participate in a...

About the Program

Program Dates

During the spring semester, students receive academic instruction on topics related to California politics and policy, develop their original research proposal, and prepare for and apply to internships. During the summer, Fellows move to Sacramento to complete their summer internship and conduct original research.