California, the golden state, the land of opportunity. But for many residents, opportunities are few and far between, and oftentimes the reality of policy falls short of well-meaning diversity, equity, and inclusion goals. Poverty and homelessness, lack of affordable housing, rising expenses for necessities, high incarceration rates, drought, and natural disasters are statewide issues. In the inland region of Southern California, home to the University of California Riverside (UCR), faces lower educational attainment, high housing cost burden, lower annual wages, and higher pollution burden than the more affluent regions along the Southern California coast.
If these are policy issues you are passionate about, we invite you to join UCR’s School of Public Policy inaugural PPIA Public Service Weekend (PSW) from October 4 – 6, 2024. Participants will be introduced to policy issues, graduate school and career opportunities, and professional development activities during the three-day program. Students will learn about policy issues such as housing affordability, CA energy policy, prison reform, environmental racism, and the role of public-private partnerships in the decision-making process. Students will then apply what they learned throughout the weekend and present a policy solution to one of the policy issues analyzed in the program.
Should you have any questions on the application or program, please contact Jolene Sedita (jolene.sedita@ucr.edu).
FAQ
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Who can apply for the PSW?
- Undergraduates from all majors and backgrounds should apply, particularly those with a commitment to working on policy issues involving social justice and equity.
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What materials are needed to submit my application?
- Students will be asked to upload the following documents (PDF format):
- Current resume
- Unofficial copy of your transcript
- Personal statement
- What about your experience or background/experience has inspired you to explore a career in public policy?
- How do you envision your career path impacting the policy issues you
are most interested in? - How will attending PSW help you achieve your career goals?
- Students will be asked to upload the following documents (PDF format):
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What can I do to make my application stand out?
- The application review team is interested in knowing your aspirations in public service, how your background informs your goals, and how attending a PSW may help facilitate your goals.
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Do I need to have a background in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to participate?
- No experience or background needed!
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Cost
There is no cost to attend. Students must provide their own transportation to and from UC Riverside and all meals will be provided. Participants may be eligible to receive financial support for lodging – please contact Jolene Sedita (jolene.sedita@ucr.edu) for more information.
