Capital Fellows Program
Launch a career in public policy and shape the future of California as a nationally recognized Capital Fellow! Fellows are paid full-time for 10-11 months to actively engage in public service and gain firsthand experience in the governance and leadership of the most diverse, complex state in the nation with the mentorship of a California legislative, executive, or judicial branch office. Applicants may apply to one or any number of our four program options:
- The Jesse M. Unruh Assembly Fellowship Program (digital brochure)
- The Senate Fellowship Program (digital brochure)
- The Executive Fellowship Program (digital brochure)
- The Judicial Fellowship Program (digital brochure)
Testimonials
“Being an Assembly Fellow is easily one of the most life-changing experiences I’ve had. I’ve learned about so much more than just the legislative process and how our state’s government functions. This fellowship also taught me a lot about how I work best and helped shape and solidify my interest in my future career.” – Alchemy Graham, Assembly Fellow, 2020-2021
“The highlight of my fellowship has been the discussions with experts that challenge and expand my beliefs, coupled with the privilege of working closely with Senator Seyarto and his fantastic team. Additionally, I cherish the bonds I’ve formed with my fellowship class, who have become like a second family to me.” – Christian Lopez, Senate Fellow, 2023-2024
“I have learned so much in the Executive Fellowship Program. In my placement, I had the opportunity to do hands-on work with direct involvement from state leaders. Even if you don’t have experience in politics, the Executive Fellowship Program can teach you the skills important to a career as a public servant. The Executive Fellowship is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to become a leader in public service.” – Corbin Farias, Executive Fellow, 2023-2024
“The Judicial Fellowship introduced an incredible (and previously unknown to me) opportunity for highly engaging public service. I was looking for ways to make the world a better place when I applied to be a Fellow. My path to being appointed as a CEO of a Superior Court was deeply shaped by the examples of dedicated service I saw around me in the program.” – Laila Waheed, Judicial Fellow, 2017-2018
Program Benefits
- Health, vision, and dental benefits
- Graduate Certificate in Applied Policy and Government
- Paid university enrollment and student fees for units in Political Science and Public Policy and Administration
- Student loan deferment
Program Eligibility
All applicants must:
- Be at least 20 years of age by September 1 of the fellowship year
- Have a bachelor’s degree by September 1 of the fellowship year and either a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher or a GPA of 2.5 or higher in the last 60 (semester) or 90 (quarter) units
- Be authorized to work in the United States for the duration of the fellowship program
Contact Us
- Email: capfellowsoutreach@csus.edu
- Instagram: @calstudiescsus
- Visit our website for the online application, deadlines, and complete information: Capital Fellows Programs | Sacramento State
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