The UCCS is the University’s 3-year pilot program for Undergraduate Scholar Interns who are interested in gaining experience in the areas of government and public policy, as well as in other fields. Students are asked to complete coursework, as well as an internship program while attending.

The program is directed by Professor of Economics, Gary Dymski, who has been at UCR since 1991. Professor Dymski, obtained a Masters in Public Administration from Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, as well as a PhD in Economics from the University of Massachusetts. He has previously held several public-service positions, authored several works, and has been honored as a teacher and mentor.

Professor Dymski realizes and values how rare it is to have the opportunity to be able to direct and start a program like this from the ground up. He states that he is enjoying the role he plays in building the program, and appreciates the chance to make students “professionally-empowered, more aware members of the California community.”

The 2004 Winter Quarter marked the inaugural term for the program. The first wave of 17 students represented all eight of the UC’s undergraduate campuses. In the future, 24-30 students per quarter will be selected, with approximately three coming from each UC undergraduate campus.

In order to apply for acceptance to the UCCS program applicants must meet minimum criteria of a 3.0 GPA, Junior academic standing, and also a specific number of units (which may vary from campus to campus). Applicants will be evaluated not only by GPA, but also motivation, as well as other factors,

The two major components of the pilot program are the educational and internship experience. Students involved in the program must be enrolled in 12 to 16 units. These units must consist of an internship, a seminar course, and an elective. Academic credit for these courses varies from campus to campus. Internships are available in a wide range of fields within a variety of government offices and other organizations that include: offices of assembly members, state senators, state agencies, and non-profit organizations.

Housing is included in the cost of the program, and is provided at the Adagio Guest Suites, located 3.5 miles from the center. Each student living in Adagio is assigned to a 2 bedroom and 2 bathroom suite with three roommates. Public transportation is easily accessible and encouraged for residents; however, participants are allowed to bring their own vehicles. Financial aid for those involved in the program can be adjusted to accommodate the costs. The Program will be accepting applications for Fall quarter, 2004 and Winter quarter, 2005 until April 12th, 2004.

For more information on the program, please visit the UC Center Sacramento Website. For those interested in applying to the program, contact Linda LaTendresse in the UCR campus career center.