Applicant Tips

This guide is designed to help students submit strong, thoughtful, and competitive applications for ASUCR and UCSA Advocacy Days, including (but not limited to) Student Lobby Conference, UC Hill Day, and identity-centered or issue-based advocacy days. These applications are not just forms; they are how selection committees understand your story, your values, and your readiness to represent students in advocacy spaces.

1. Understanding the Purpose of Advocacy Days

Advocacy Days are opportunities for students to:

*Represent UC students in meetings with legislators, agency staff, and decision‑makers

*Share lived experiences to influence public policy

*Build advocacy, leadership, and policy analysis skills

*Engage in collective action rooted in equity and justice

Selection committees are not looking for “perfect” applicants. They are looking for students who are thoughtful, prepared, and grounded in why this work matters.

2. How Applications Are Reviewed (What Reviewers Look For)

While each Advocacy Day may have specific criteria, most applications are reviewed with attention to:

Intentionality – Why do you want to participate in this advocacy day?

Connection to the issue or identity focus – How does this advocacy space relate to your lived experience, studies, or community?

Capacity & commitment – Can you meet the time, training, and participation expectations?

Equity & representation – How does your participation help broaden whose voices are present in advocacy spaces?

Clarity & reflection – Are your responses clear, honest, and self‑reflective?

You do not need prior lobbying experience to be selected

3. Writing Strong Short‑Answer Responses

A. Be Specific, Not Generic

Avoid vague statements like:

“I want to make a difference and learn more about policy.”

Instead, explain:

What difference?

Which policies or issues?

Why now?

Specific examples help reviewers understand your motivation.

B. Center Your Lived Experience (When Relevant)

Advocacy is powerful when grounded in lived realities. If you feel comfortable, consider:

*Your background (first‑gen, low‑income, transfer, undocumented, student parent, identity‑based experiences, etc.)

*How policy decisions have impacted you or your community

*Why your perspective is often missing from decision‑making spaces

You are never required to disclose personal information. Share only what feels safe and appropriate for you.

C. Show Readiness to Learn

Strong applications balance passion with humility. It is okay to say:

You are still learning

You want to build advocacy skills

You want guidance and training

What matters is your willingness to prepare, listen, and grow.

4. Equity‑Centered Considerations

ASUCR and UCSA prioritize equitable access to advocacy opportunities. Selection committees may consider:

Whether students from marginalized or underrepresented communities are included.

Whether applicants bring perspectives not already represented.

Whether participation supports leadership development for students with fewer access points to policy spaces.

This does not mean there is a single “right” identity or experience. It means committees aim to build balanced, representative delegations.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

*Repeating the question without answering it

*Writing what you think reviewers want to hear instead of your truth

*Leaving short‑answer questions blank or rushed

*Over‑inflating experience instead of reflecting honestly

*Missing deadlines or required sections

6. Before You Submit: Application Checklist

Before submitting, ask yourself:

• Did I fully answer every question?

• Did I explain why this advocacy day matters to me?

• Did I proofread for clarity and basic grammar?

• Did I answer honestly about availability and commitment?

• Does my application reflect my values and motivations?

7. After You Apply

• You will receive confirmation that your application was received

• Selection committees may take time to review holistically

• Not being selected does not reflect your worth or potential as an advocate

• Many students apply multiple times before participating

There will always be future opportunities to engage in advocacy.

8. Final Encouragement

Advocacy spaces need students who are:

• Curious

• Grounded

• Willing to learn

• Committed to justice

• Ready to show up for their communities

If that sounds like you, your voice belongs here.