Official Blog | UCGPC

The University of California Graduate and Professional Council (UCGPC) is looking for current graduate and professional students in good academic standing for the position of Director of Government Relations and Legislative Affairs. This role includes a monthly stipend to recognize the contribution of time and resources. This role is crucial to our external advocacy and the impact we make on the UC community. Please complete the form linked at the end of the document to apply for nomination.  

To be eligible, candidates must be a graduated individual of a UC undergraduate or graduate program or a currently enrolled student at a UC graduate or professional degree program for the entire term (December 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026) in good academic and student standing. After submitting their application, candidates must be nominated by a current member of the UCGPC board in order to be considered for an interview.  Preferred qualifications for the position include leadership experience in an advocacy movement or UC campus-based student government; strong organizational skills, writing skills; ability to analyze bills, write policy analyses, and train large groups; knowledge of higher education policy; experience in student-centered advocacy and political advocacy; experience scheduling and following-up with legislative staff.

This position serves as a platform to showcase your leadership and advocacy skills, as well as an opportunity for personal growth and development. The UCGPC Board looks forward to the opportunity to collaborate with the next UCGPC Director of Government Relations and Legislative Affairs to advocate for students and enact change across the UC system.

After submitting their application, candidates must be nominated by a current member of the UCGPC board in order to be considered for an interview. The nomination process is internal, and candidates do not need to contact Board members.

Timeline of Application Process:

October 24: Call for applications opens

November 4: Application Closes

November 11: Interview invitations sent to nominated candidates

November 14 & 15: Candidate Interviews (time TBD)

November 22: Announcement of new officer via email (by EOD)

December 1: Start date for new Director of Government Relations and Legislative Affairs

If you are interested in this position, but need accommodations, please reach out via email to president@ucgpc501c3.org.

See the job description here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WPgzbDQRhwedou6bBaba8Z8w93yqip56/edit

Cover Letter Instructions:

In a personal statement of 250-500 words, explain your motivations for applying for the role of Director of Government Relations and Legislative Affairs.  Highlight the relevant skills, qualifications, and experiences that make you a strong candidate and align with the responsibilities and goals of this position.

1. Motivation and Vision: In a clear statement, explain what motivates you to serve as the Director of Government Relations and Legislative Affairs of UCGPC. Briefly outline your vision for the organization and what you hope to achieve during your term.
2. Leadership and Experience: Highlight your relevant skills and experience for this leadership role. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your abilities in areas such as leadership, communication, organization, collaboration, training, and meeting facilitation.
3. Advocacy Experience: If you have experience serving in an advocate capacity, describe your involvement, including the organization name(s), service duration, mission contributions, and any challenges you faced and overcame. 
4. Political Advocacy: If you have prior experience in political advocacy, share details about your activities, the issues you supported, the impact of your efforts, and any foreseen challenges in this UCGPC role. Explain how you plan to address these challenges. Expand on your experience interacting with legislative staff, drafting advocacy letters.

Thank you for your interest in serving on the staff of the University of California Graduate and Professional Council. If you have any questions or concerns, please email President Stephanie Valadez at president@ucgpc501c3.org. 

To apply, applicants must submit an application and cover letter here.