Lobby Corps

What is Lobby Corps?

Lobby Corps is an Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) volunteer program made up of CSUSM students who are passionate about advocating for higher education at the local, state, and federal levels. Members receive advocacy training, participate in professional development workshops, and gain opportunities to engage with elected officials while advocating for issues that impact CSUSM students and the California State University system.

What does a Lobby Corps member do?

As a Lobby Corps member, you will:

• Participate in advocacy and leadership trainings led by the ASI Vice President of Student and University Affairs.
• Learn about the California State University system, current higher education policy issues, and the legislative process.
• Develop advocacy skills through lobbying practice simulations, team-building activities, and other interactive workshops
• Research issues affecting CSUSM students and the CSU system.
  
• Have opportunities to engage with elected officials by asking questions, discussing higher education issues, and sharing the student perspective during advocacy meetings and events.

California Higher Education Student Summit (CHESS)

Lobby Corps members have the opportunity to attend the California Higher Education Student Summit (CHESS), an annual statewide advocacy conference that brings together student leaders from across the California State University system. Participants strengthen their advocacy and leadership skills, learn about current higher education policy priorities, and meet with state legislators at the California State Capitol to advocate for CSU students.

Meeting Commitment

Lobby Corps consists of 12 student members and meets weekly during U-Hour on Thursdays, beginning midway through the fall semester and continuing through April.

Selected members are placed on either the Primary Team or the Alternate Team. Both teams are expected to attend weekly meetings, trainings, and professional development activities. Primary Team members will represent CSUSM at CHESS. In contrast, Alternate Team members may also participate in opportunities such as the California Higher Education Student Summit (CHESS) if a Primary Team member is unable to attend.

Regular attendance is encouraged to help members build advocacy skills, stay informed on current policy issues, and prepare for legislative engagement opportunities.

Who Should Join?

Lobby Corps is open to all currently enrolled CSUSM students—no prior experience is required.

This program is ideal for students who:

• Are passionate about making a positive impact in their communities and advocating for student interests.
• Want to develop leadership, advocacy, and professional skills.
• Have an interest in leadership, public policy, political science, community development, higher education, or public administration.
• Are eager to learn about public policy and represent student voices at the local, state, and federal levels.

Applications

Applications are currently open! Please submit your application by Friday, September 18th, by 11:59 PM.

Click here to Apply!
     

Your Lobby Corps Contact