The Jesse M. Unruh Assembly Fellowship Program, founded in 1957, is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious legislative fellowship programs. This bipartisan program offers aspiring public servants from diverse backgrounds the unique opportunity to participate directly in California's legislative process and contribute to the development of public policy. Fellows are placed in the Capitol offices of Assembly Members and work in a fast-paced, dynamic legislative environment.
The program seeks highly motivated individuals who are passionate about public policy, politics, and the State of California. Assembly Fellows serve full-time as legislative staff and receive professional development, support, and mentorship throughout the fellowship year. Alumni of the program have gone on to serve in elected office and to hold leadership roles in both public and private sectors. In addition to developing the skills to succeed in legislative work, Fellows gain valuable experience that is transferable to a broad range of careers and graduate studies.
The 2025-26 Assembly Fellowship cohort consists of 25 Fellows, expanded from 18, making it the largest fellowship in the Capital Fellowship Programs. This increase was made possible by Speaker Robert Rivas, whose belief in the value of the program and recognition of its strong support among Assembly Members led to the expansion. The program is deeply grateful to Speaker Rivas for his leadership and commitment to investing in the next generation of public servants.
Fellowship Experience
Assembly Fellows serve as full-time legislative staff in the Capitol office of a California State Assembly Member. Fellows perform the duties of a legislative aide, including:
- Advising the Member on policy issues, making vote recommendations, and helping to guide bills through the legislative process
- Preparing speeches, press releases and other communications
- Representing the Member at meetings and events
- Working with constituents, advocacy groups, lobbyists and government agencies
The program begins each October with an intensive orientation that introduces Fellows to the legislative process and key policy issues. Orientation is led by senior legislative staff and other policy experts. Fellows are then placed in a Member's office and integrated into the legislative team, where they work under the guidance of senior staff.
Academic Seminar
Fellows attend a weekly academic seminar through Sacramento State and earn six units of graduate credits in Political Science. The seminar combines theoretical and practical perspectives on California politics and policymaking. Upon completion of the program, Fellows receive a Graduation Certificate in Applied Policy and Government.
Program Eligibility
To be eligible for the program, applicants must
- Be at least 20 years of age by September 1 of the fellowship year
- Have a bachelor’s degree by September 1 of the fellowship year
- Have either a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher, or a GPA of 2.5 or higher in the last 60 semester or 90 quarter units
- Demonstrated a strong interest in state government and public policy
- Be authorized to work in the United States for the duration of the program
Program Benefits
- Monthly stipend of $3,253
- Health, vision and dental benefits
- Paid university enrollment and student fees
- Graduate Certificate in Applied Policy and Government
- Student loan deferment eligibility
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following materials by the application deadline:
- Completed online application (available at www.csus.edu/capitalfellows)
- Resume
- Personal statement and policy statement
- College transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
More information
For more information, including deadlines and program dates, please visit:
csus.edu/capitalfellows
For questions please contact:
Ambar Carlisle Salgueiro | Program Director
Assembly Fellowship Program
Ambar.Carlisle@asm.ca.gov