The Dolores Huerta Research Center for the Americas is the first research center in the UC system to advance a broad program of interdisciplinary research that brings together Chicanx/Latinx and Latin American studies. The Huerta Center has a strong history of supporting undergraduate programming and collaboration with other organizations on and off the UCSC campus, which is exemplified in the Legislative Fellowship Program.
Dolores Huerta is a passionate believer in democracy and civic participation. In honor of her commitment, the Huerta Center developed the Legislative Fellowship Program, which is aimed at introducing undergraduate students to public service. Now in its second year, the selected fellows spend four months interning in a local elected official's office while participating in professional development sessions with the Huerta Center faculty director and staff for continued mentorship. This fellowship program provides an invaluable opportunity for undergraduate students to get an insider's view into local politics, make important networking connections, and gain valuable professional skills that can greatly contribute to developing their career paths. One of the inaugural Legislative Fellows reported about her experience:
I can confidently say that I had a very fulfilling and rewarding experience as a fellow at Senator Laird’s office. I met so many people who I know I will continue to be in contact with. We were even offered to continue interning for Senator Laird because of the overall mutual positive experience in the office. The Dolores Huerta Research Center has given me such a rewarding experience that has opened so many doors for me and my academic future. I learned so much about the legislative process and what it truly means to work in public service.
Internships are a critical way for undergraduate students to gain work experience, and yet they are often unpaid, making them inaccessible for many first-generation students at UC Santa Cruz. Donations from the Spring Give will go directly to supporting paid internships in local legislative offices so that students who may not otherwise have the opportunity are able to add this exceptional experience to their résumés.
The Dolores Huerta Research Center for the Americas is a model of research and mentorship excellence in the UC system, and we rely on donations to keep our inspiring work going. Thank you for supporting the Legislative Fellowship Program today!