Applications open for Young Legislators Program!

Dear Neighbor,

We are accepting applications for our inaugural Young Legislators Program, which offers qualified high school juniors or seniors in the 73rd Assembly District a front row seat to the public policy arena. During the six month program, students will learn to become better advocates on issues they care about, gain valuable leadership skills and consider future careers in the public and private sector, all free of cost.

Up to 15 students will be selected to participate in the 2025 Young Legislators Program. The goal of the program is to equip our youth with the skills and knowledge to consider a career in government or public policy. Young Legislators will meet for six monthly sessions from January through June 2025 to learn about the legislative process and leadership development, dynamic careers and public policy issues involving energy, water, health care, and more. The program will culminate with an optional all-expenses paid trip to the State Capitol in Sacramento. Sessions will include both in-person meetings and tours.

Requirements

High school seniors or juniors with at least a 2.5 unweighted GPA.
Must live or attend school in the 73rd Assembly District (Costa Mesa, Irvine, and Tustin).
Commit to six monthly, two-hour minimum sessions from January to June 2025. Sessions will occur on the 4th Thursday of the month, from 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Selection Criteria

Must submit official high school transcript (can be requested from school counselor or administration).
Must complete application form including a short essay (500 words or less) on a public policy issue affecting California and how you think it can be solved.
Must be able to commit to all scheduled sessions to complete the program and participate in the optional Sacramento trip.

Applications due December 13 at 5:00 PM. Notifications will be sent to selected participants by December 20.