Nelson W. Polsby Grant for Public Affairs Research

Up to ten research grants of $500 each will be awarded to UC Berkeley undergraduates participating in a select number of campus programs, including UCDC, to encourage major research on "an aspect of American politics." The $500 may be used to cover research expenses including travel costs to DC. Each semester, up to five awards will be given. Novebmer 12th is the deadline for Fall 2008 and January 28th is the deadline for Spring 2009, so this is a great opportunity for both current and future participants who are interested in compensating for the additional costs of participating in UCDC!

More details can be found on the program's website.

Robert T. Matsui-UC Congressional Fellowship

The Institute of Governmental Studies has just announced that four additional Matsui Fellowshipships will be awarded for the Winter 2009 term. That means there are now a total of 6 opportunites for UCDC students interning on the Hill to gain the non-need based financial support, placement assistance and honorable distinction afforded by this program. This includes a $2,000 stipend and a special awards ceremony on Capitol Hill.

For more information about the application process, visit the information page from the UC Washington Center's website, available here.

Where are they now?

Curious about where people really end up after completing a semester on the UCDC program? The UCDC Alumni maintain a list highlighting just a few of the paths chosen by the program's participants. View the list here.

DC Blogs

The number of DC blogs per capita is astounding. With so many to choose from, it's impossible to go very long without finding one that suits your tastes. Wrirting on politics, local events, food, fashion, dating, gossip and odd combinations of everything in between, DC bloggers seem to have covered all the bases. Blogs are a great way for future UCDCers to get acquainted with their new homes, and for alumni to reflect nostalgically on life in the District. With so many to choose from, here are a few recommendations to guide your search:

Wonkette is a staple for politically incorrect Hill gossip.
For local events, entertainment and dining recommendations, try DCist.
DC City Blog serves as a great insiders guide to the best food and nightlife DC has to offer.
Covering a full spectrum of local news issues, Metroblogging Washington can replace perusing mainstream news sources' local coverage.
DC Goodwill Fashions highlights great finds discovered in this thrift store chain - useful for both the vintage fashionista and the struggling college student.
DC Metro Action provides activists with information on local events and volunteer opportunities.
Food and politics meet at on the DC Foodies blog.

If none of these options seem to do the trick, this complete list of DC blogs should do the trick - or start your own!

Current Events

Whether you're a current participant, alumni, or a prospective applicant, it's great to stay updated on current DC musings. Check out the blogs maintained by the UC Center and the Fall 2008 UCDC students for up-to-date information on opinions, impressions, events and activities straight from the source!

Cal UCDC Facebook

Hey everyone make sure to join the Cal UCDC Facebook to stay connected with all Cal students past and present who participated.