UO Legislative Scholars

Become a University of Oregon Legislative Scholar!

Are you a UO student who is interested in public policy, advocacy, and politics? Become a UO Legislative Scholar! The UO Legislative Scholars Program allows students to have hands on experiential learning with elected officials, staff, and advocates. Legislative Scholars will participate in briefings with legislators, lobbyists, organizers, UO program administrators, and more. Legislative Scholars will take part in advocating for increases in state and federal student financial aid, and for broader student support.

Eligibility

Any student currently enrolled at the UO is eligible to be a legislative scholar. The program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students. We welcome students who have participated before to apply for another year!

Program Requirements

Fulfillment of the Legislative Scholar program requires students to attend a majority of the policy briefings and participate in at least one of advocacy activity.

1. Attend one Policy Briefing (attendance at both will allow students to gain a deeper understanding of student financial aid policy and effective advocacy techniques):

First briefing | Wednesday, November 29, 2023, Noon – 1pm: Overview of state and federal financial aid and policy agendas by UO Government & Community Relations staff and discussion with State Representative and UO alum Andrea Valderrama (HD 47).

Second briefing | Wednesday, January 31, 2024, noon – 1pm: Effective advocacy strategy discussion with a state legislator, lobbyist, and student leadership.

Third briefing | Wednesday, March 13, 2024, noon – 1pm: Discussion with UO alumni who are currently working in Congressional offices.

End of Year Celebration | April TBD

These briefings are subject to slight changes.

2. Participate in at least one advocacy activity:

  1. Attend Oregon Business Plan Leadership Summit on December 11, 2023. (Limited scholarships will be made available.)
  2. Meet with Oregon congressional delegation offices about the need increase financial aid and Double the Pell.
  3. Attend University Day at the Capitol in Salem on February 8, 2024.
  4. Take part in a legislative town hall and advocate for UO students.
  5. Draft an op-ed, letter to the editor, or social media post on policy or legislation to benefit UO students.
  6. Or a project of your choice to be discussed with Government and Community Relations staff.

Program Goals:

  1. Support UO’s state and federal agendas;
  2. Foster a community of UO student and alumni advocates dedicated to supporting public higher education in Oregon;
  3. Ensure that student voices are heard in the policy-making process; and
  4. Facilitate experiential learning and professional development in the political and public policy process, across all academic disciplines.

Application Process

Application process for 2024-25 will be announced Fall 2024.

Questions

For questions or more information, please contact Joe Erickson.