Colleges and Schools > Hobby School of Public Affairs > Leland Fellows
About Leland Fellows
Leland Fellows offers UH undergraduate students the opportunity to work as full-time interns in Washington, D.C. on Capitol Hill. Historically, economically disadvantaged students could rarely pursue employment opportunities as congressional staff members due to the reality that internships - the primary recruitment avenue - are available only to those who can financially afford to live in Washington, D.C. These expenses, plus loss of income from a local job, place this opportunity beyond the reach of many students. Leland Fellows provides a monthly stipend and round-trip airfare, as well as paid housing.
Leland Fellows are assigned to offices on Capitol Hill. They gain first-hand knowledge of the legislative process by observation, participation, research, and writing. They also attend meetings and hearings, and meet with constituents and lobbyists in addition to completing traditional office duties.
Hobby Fellows earn 3-12 hours of upper level political science or public policy credit (dependent on the student’s degree plan) for participation in the program by combining supervised academic study and research with practical training.
Additional benefits include the following:
- Encouraging academic achievements and community involvement;
- Polishing oral and written communication skills;
- Providing leadership training;
- Developing a strong sense of civic responsibility;
- Fostering relationships with interns from other Texas universities; and
- Increasing the positive exposure of UH’s Tier One students in Washington, D.C.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be a junior or senior at UH during the semester of application. Students graduating the semester before the program are welcome to apply. Must be in good academic standing with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Ideal Candidates Possess
- Outstanding academic achievement
- Strong writing ability
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Demonstrated dedication to public service through volunteerism in school and/or community activities
- Government internship or campaign experience
Personal interviews, academic achievement, writing ability, community and school activities, previous internship and/or professional experience, and financial hardship are factors in the selection process.
Program Requirements
Leland Fellows work a minimum of 40 hours per week, participate in seminars, and complete various academic assignments, which make them eligible for 3-12 academic credit hours. All Leland Fellows must be enrolled for the appropriate hours/classes at UH before the initial stipend is issued. Proof of enrollment is required.
General questions about the Leland Fellows may be directed to Jessica Ruland at jlruland@cougarnet.uh.edu. For more information and on how to apply, please visit http://www.uh.edu/hobby/interns/leland-fellows.
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