Rutgers-Newark Sends Six Students to Capitol Hill for Prestigious Policy Fellowships
Table of Contents
- 1. Rutgers-Newark Sends Six Students to Capitol Hill for Prestigious Policy Fellowships
- 2. Breaking Down Barriers to Public Service
- 3. Meet The 2025 Capitol Hill Policy Fellows
- 4. Lasting Impact and Future Leaders
- 5. Financial Support and Community Partnership
- 6. Program Benefits Overview
- 7. The Importance of Diverse Voices in Policy
- 8. Frequently Asked Questions About the Capitol Hill Policy Fellowship
- 9. What are the specific career development skills that Rutgers-Newark students will develop through their participation in the Capitol Hill Fellowship?
- 10. Rutgers-Newark & Braven: Powering Up the Capitol Hill Fellowship
- 11. The Rutgers-Newark and Braven Collaboration
- 12. The Capitol Hill fellowship: A Key Component
- 13. Braven’s support System for Fellows
- 14. Notable Employers Connected to Braven
- 15. Benefits for Rutgers-Newark Students: Key Takeaways
Newark, N.J. – Rutgers University-Newark is once again sending a cohort of students to washington, D.C., for the Capitol Hill Policy Fellowship Program.This initiative, now in its second year, aims to break down barriers for students from underrepresented backgrounds seeking careers in public service through the Capitol Hill Fellowships.
Six exceptional undergraduate students from Rutgers-Newark have been selected for the 2025 Capitol Hill Policy Fellowships, a collaboration between the Sheila Y. Oliver Center for Politics and Race in America (CPRA) and the national nonprofit Braven.This program provides a nine-week immersive experience on Capitol Hill, complete with complete support to ensure student success.Along with practical experience, the fellows receive housing, transportation, a professional wardrobe stipend, and a living allowance.
Breaking Down Barriers to Public Service
The Capitol Hill Policy Fellowship directly addresses the obstacles faced by first-generation and low-income students aspiring to public service careers. According to a 2023 report by the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, congressional staff remain disproportionately white and affluent, highlighting the need for programs like this to create a more diverse and representative workforce. Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies
James Jones, Director of CPRA, emphasized the program’s alignment with their mission: “Our Partnership With Braven Is A Natural Extension Of Cpra’s Mission To Explore And Expand Political Participation Among Communities Historically Excluded From Pathways To Leadership.” Jones also noted the program’s early success, with alumni already securing full-time congressional staff positions.
Meet The 2025 Capitol Hill Policy Fellows
The following students have been selected to participate in the 2025 Capitol Hill Policy Fellowships:
- Alexis Castro, rutgers-Newark School Of Criminal Justice – Rep. Lois Frankel (Fl-21)
- Jacinay Coleman-Shelton, Rutgers School Of Public Affairs And Governance – Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (Nj-12)
- Esron Holder, Rutgers Business School – Rep. Lamonica Mciver (Nj-10)
- Moujan Moghimi, Rutgers-Newark School Of Arts And Sciences – Rep. Herb Conaway (Nj-13)
- Karen Perez, Rutgers School Of Public Affairs And Administration – Rep. Nydia Velázquez (Ny-7)
- Edwin Pineda-Cortes, Rutgers School Of Arts And Sciences – Rep. Lamonica Mciver (Nj-10)
These students will gain invaluable experience working directly with members of Congress, contributing to policy development and constituent services.
Lasting Impact and Future Leaders
Hyacinth Miller,Director of the public Service Leadership Program,connects the fellowship to a larger purpose. “The Capitol hill Fellowship Embodies The Legacy Of sheila Y. Oliver By Preparing Students To Lead With Purpose, Insight, And Integrity,” Miller stated, highlighting the program’s role in shaping future leaders.
Aliyah Saleem, A 2024 Capitol Hill Fellow, credits the experience with shaping her career path. Under Representative Velázquez, Saleem felt empowered to advocate for constituents and continue her commitment to public service.
Financial Support and Community Partnership
Johnson & Johnson supports the program, contributing $100,000 in 2024 to fund internship stipends. Newark is home to unusual student leaders driving meaningful change,” said Samantha Crockett, Executive Director of Braven Newark. “Through our partnership with Rutgers-Newark and the Sheila Y. Oliver Center for Politics and Race in America, we’re proud to expand opportunities for these talented Fellows to contribute their voices on Capitol hill and beyond.”
Program Benefits Overview
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Housing | Accommodation provided in Washington, D.C. |
| Transportation | Assistance with travel expenses to and from D.C. |
| Professional Wardrobe stipend | Funds to purchase appropriate professional attire. |
| Living Allowance | Financial support to cover living expenses during the internship. |
| Career Development | Ongoing mentorship and skill-building workshops. |
The Importance of Diverse Voices in Policy
Having diverse voices in policy-making is essential for creating equitable and effective laws. When policymakers reflect the communities thay serve, they are better equipped to understand and address the unique challenges faced by different groups. According to Brookings, diverse teams are more innovative and better at problem-solving. Brookings
Initiatives like the Rutgers-Newark Capitol Hill Policy Fellowship play a crucial role in fostering diversity in government and ensuring that all voices are heard in the policy-making process.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Capitol Hill Policy Fellowship
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What is the Capitol Hill Policy Fellowship Program?
The Capitol Hill Policy Fellowship Program is a partnership between Rutgers University-Newark and Braven that provides undergraduate students with internships on Capitol Hill.
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Who is eligible for the Rutgers-Newark Capitol Hill Fellowships?
Undergraduate students at Rutgers-Newark, particularly those who are first in their families to attend college or from low-income backgrounds, are eligible for the Capitol Hill Fellowships.
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What support do Capitol Hill Policy Fellows receive?
Capitol Hill Policy Fellows receive housing,transportation,a professional wardrobe stipend,a living allowance,and ongoing career development and mentorship.
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What is the duration of the Capitol Hill internship?
The Capitol Hill internship is an immersive, nine-week experience designed to provide fellows with practical experience in public service.
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How does the Capitol Hill Policy Fellowship impact students’ careers?
The Capitol Hill Policy Fellowship helps students gain valuable experience and mentorship, leading to opportunities in congressional staff roles and other public service positions.
What do you think about programs that promote diversity in public service? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
What are the specific career development skills that Rutgers-Newark students will develop through their participation in the Capitol Hill Fellowship?
Rutgers-Newark & Braven: Powering Up the Capitol Hill Fellowship
The Rutgers-Newark and Braven Collaboration
In a strategic move to bolster student success, Rutgers University-Newark has broadened its partnership with Braven, a career development institution. This collaboration is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and networking opportunities required to excel in their future careers. This expansion demonstrates a commitment to student career development and internship programs.
The Capitol Hill fellowship: A Key Component
A central piece of this expanded partnership is the Capitol Hill Fellowship.This fellowship provides Rutgers-Newark students with invaluable opportunities to intern in Washington, D.C. The program goes beyond just securing an internship; it also offers crucial support infrastructure.
- Housing Provision: students participating in the fellowship are provided with housing while in D.C.
- Internship Opportunities: Offers practical experience in a highly competitive environment.
- Career Advancement: Helps students in gaining experience and making valuable connections
Braven’s support System for Fellows
Braven’s contribution to the fellowship extends far beyond matching students with internships. They actively support fellows by exposing them to a vast network of potential employers, preparing them for long-term career success.
Notable Employers Connected to Braven
Braven’s network includes a diverse range of influential companies and organizations, creating a valuable launchpad for emerging professionals.this provides networking opportunities and increases job prospects.
| Employer | Industry | Potential opportunities |
|---|---|---|
| Prudential Financial | Financial Services | Internships, entry-Level Positions |
| Teach for America | Education/Non-profit | Teaching Fellowships, Program Management |
| mckinsey & Co. | management Consulting | Internships, Analyst Roles |
| Barclays | Financial Services | Internships, Analyst Roles |
| Deloitte | Professional Services | Consulting, Assurance, and Tax |
| Panasonic North America | Technology and Manufacturing | Engineering, marketing, Management |
Benefits for Rutgers-Newark Students: Key Takeaways
The expansion of the Rutgers-Newark and Braven partnership is designed to yield ample advantages for participating students. The program aims to help them.
- Elevate Career Prospects: Through internships and networking.
- Maximize Professional Development: Develop essential job skills.
- Expand Professional Network: Build connections with industry leaders.
- Navigate Competitive Job Market: Gain an edge in finding employment.
