Houston Policy Experience

Fall 2025 Applications are Now Open!

Apply at: HPE - Fall 2025 Application 
Application Deadline: Tuesday, Sept. 2nd by 11:59pm (CST)

Curious about what a career in policy advocacy looks like? Explore policy advocacy and community engagement through the Houston Policy Experience (HPE) program! This is a Learn Level opportunity where students shadow local community partners, observe critical civic professional skills, and gain insights into policy impacts on social issues and inequities. 

Participate in online curriculum introducing fundamentals of policy advocacy, strategies for community influence, and critical reflection coursework. Students shadow a community partner about 1 hr/week for six weeks, culminating in a final reflection paper and a community celebration event with a policy career panel. Partner options will be finalized in September.

There is a small budget to support student transportation to partner locations.

*No previous policy experience is necessary, and all majors are encouraged to apply.*

Application: HPE - Fall 2025 Application 
Application Deadline: Tuesday, Sept. 2nd by 11:59pm (CST)
Eligibility: Open to all students and majors
CCL Staff: Dr. Veronica Reyna (vr33@rice.edu)