One of the best ways to get your foot in the door to a career in government is through a local or state government professional fellowship program. One of the best is the Capital Fellows Program, which offers college graduates unique experiences in policymaking and development within the California state government. Fellows work as full-time, paid public policy assistants to top ranking government officials while assisting with tasks such as drafting and analyzing legislation, writing speeches, conducting policy briefings, and working with court project development and implementation.

“The Capital Fellows Program gives fellows the unique opportunity to learn and craft public policy through hands-on work with elected officials and staff,” said California Assemblymember Jared Huffman, who represents Southern Sonoma and Marin counties in the state legislature. “The program provides a challenging, professional work experience that serves as the foundation for successful careers in both the public and private sectors.” Read more. 

Program brochures and applications are available at the Center for California Studies. Applications for the 2012-2013 Capital Fellows Program are due Wednesday, February 22, 2012. The only prerequisites for applicants are a bachelor’s degree (in any major) and a demonstrated interest in state government and public service. Recent graduates, post-graduate and mid-career applicants at least 20 years of age are welcome to apply.