The National Latino Research Center (NLRC) is committed to contributing to the knowledge and understanding of rapidly growing U.S. Latino populations through applied research, training, technical assistance, research-based services, and information exchange.

The NLRC envisions a diverse, just, and equitable society that provides a healthy environment through universal quality healthcare, education, technology, and political representation.

Specializing in applied research, the NLRC brings together key stakeholders from the community, government, NGO sector, and private industry to identify solutions and develop strategies to address local and regional challenges. 

The NLRC conducts research and training in the areas of education, civic engagement, cultural competency, health, environmental issues, public policy, and community development. In addition to research projects, the NLRC provides technical assistance to a range of organizations and actively supports multi-agency collaborations that seek to leverage resources and expertise. 

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National Latino Research Center
California State University San Marcos
Social and Behavioral Sciences building 2142 
333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road
San Marcos, CA 92096-0001

Tel: 760.750.3500
Fax: 760.750.3510
E-mail: nlrc@csusm.edu

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Interested in doing student internship or Service Learning with us? 

Research Assistantship Opportunities

The National Latino Research Center engages students in research-based projects through internships, assistantships, and leadership trainings to enhance their educational and research expertise.  Students working with NLRC’s research teams provide qualitative and quantitative research support in areas such as survey collection, data entry and preliminary data analysis, literature reviews, assistance in coordination of focus groups, and event planning.

NLRC offers opportunities to college students (undergraduate and graduate) to develop research abilities in participatory action research, improve communication and written skills, and develop a better understanding of the needs of local communities.

Eligibility Criteria

The purpose of the application process is to assess students’ interests and needs in conducting and learning social science research, determine student’s qualifications, identify project availability, and ensure appropriate placement.  To apply for an NLRC Research Assistantship or for more information, please contact Ana M. Ardón, Researcher, at (760) 750-3505 or aardon@csusm.edu.

Each student interested in applying for a research assistantship (paid or unpaid) at the NLRC is encouraged must fulfill the eligibility criteria in order to be considered for a position.

1. Currently enrolled at a four-year university or community college.  If in high school, student must be enrolled in a local school and be in either 11^th or 12^th grade and must obtain written permission from parent (NLRC provides permission form).
2. Be in good academic standing (2.5 GPA or above).
3. Have an interest or be pursuing a degree in a social and behavioral science such as Anthropology, Chicano/Latino Studies, Communication, Ethnic Studies, History, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, or Women’s Studies) with an emphasis on research or field work related to U.S. Latino communities.
4. Have an interest in or basic knowledge of qualitative/quantitative research methods.
5. Bilingual students preferred, but not required.

Application & Placement Process

Step 1:  Student contacts NLRC (email preferred) to notify interest in position. Please include in your email your name, major, reasons for interest, course information (if applicable), research background, and attach a résumé, a copy of academic transcript, and course syllabus. Send information no later than two weeks before the end of the semester or during the first two weeks of the semester in which the internship is planned to be conducted.

Step 2:  NLRC reviews student’s information to determine eligibility and availability of projects.

Step 3: Once eligibility and availability have been established, NLRC schedules an interview with student and NLRC Team to discuss placement guidelines.

Step 4: Student accepted for an internship/assistantship is required to attend an Orientation Training to provide an introduction to projects, complete required forms, and discuss responsibilities. 

Assistant Interest Form (PDF)
Assistant Application Process (PDF)

Last updated: 7/11/2012