Expand your knowledge of federal policy to influence positive change
Are you ready to advocate for causes you care about and create change not only within your community - but nationwide?
The TSC Student Ambassador Fellowship (SAF) program gives student leaders the opportunity to elevate the stories and lived experiences of students directly to federal policymakers and gain hands-on experience in shaping federal policy.
Hear from fellowship alumni
"The Today's Students Coalition Student Ambassadors Fellowship was incredible, and advocating at Capitol Hill and the U.S. Department of Higher Education was life changing. I am grateful for the professional development I received and its emphasis on achieving bipartisan support, an approach that was new to me and I now align with deeply! I'm warmed to have connected so quickly with my inspirational cohort, whom I hope to have in my life forever.”
— Raine Yung, School of the Art Institute of Chicago
“The Today’s Student's Coalition Student Ambassador Fellowship provided invaluable experiences, particularly through opportunities to lobby in Washington, D.C., and develop a comprehensive portfolio of work. In engaging directly with policymakers, I enhanced my understanding of advocacy and policy-making processes. This fellowship has significantly enriched my professional skills and network, preparing me for future leadership roles in education and public service.”
— Cristian Reyes, California Polytechnic State University
“Today's Student Coalition gave me not only the tools to advocate for policies I am passionate about, but also the opportunity to apply what I learned on the Hill with my legislators. My experience learning about federal policy over the last several months has given me the confidence to continue to advocate for justice and equality within the higher education sector. This fellowship, additionally, has given me a community of peers and mentors with a like-minded mission of empowering Today's Students. Being a Student Ambassador Fellow has been one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences of my life.”
— Grace Moore, Brown University
Fellowship Overview
In September 2024, TSC will launch the third cohort of Student Ambassador Fellows.
This highly selective opportunity is a one-year program for outstanding student-leaders wanting to deepen their knowledge of federal education policy and create sustainable change across their communities. SAFs will receive a $5,000 stipend and firsthand experience in reshaping our systems of higher education.
Program Structure
TSC’s SAF program is designed for student leaders from all walks of life who want to use their voices to enact change.
Here’s what you can expect to accomplish as a TSC Student Ambassador:
- Quarterly virtual meetings, a guided mentorship program, and exclusive speaker series
- An in-person advocacy event in Washington, D.C.
- Expert-led training modules on topics such as policy 101, advocacy organizing, meeting with decision makers, op-ed writing, and more
- Direct engagement with key stakeholders and policymakers
- Policy portfolio development
Who You Are
TSC Student Ambassadors are driven to improve our country’s systems of higher education, seeking change through the advancement of racial equity and accessibility. Applicants who possess the following qualifications should apply:
- A rising or enrolled postsecondary student at a two- or four-year institution of higher education, vocational or technical school, apprenticeship and/or credentialing program
- Ability to dedicate time and passion to learning about policy and advocating for changes that impact today’s students
- Available to attend quarterly virtual meetings (four) and one in-person event
Recruitment and Timeline
- Recruitment Launch: July 8, 2024
- Recruitment and Nomination Cycle: July 8 - August 9
- Nomination/Referral Deadline: July 26
- Student Ambassador Application Deadline: August 9
- Interview Phase: August 26-30
- Cohort Announcement: September 5