CASIC 2008
California Asian American Student Internship Coalition Leadership Academy

Since its inception in 1991, the California Asian American Student Internship Coalition* (CASIC) has prepared elite student leaders to be in the forefront of California’s legislative arena. This program is especially dedicated to developing leadership skills for college students who are interested in exploring a career in public office, public service or community advocacy, which includes becoming an elected or appointed official. All college students with an interest in Asian Pacific American (APA) affairs may also apply.

This eight-week leadership academy will develop:

• Political awareness and civic engagement
• Understanding of the legislative process
• Insight on issues related to the APA community
• Professional and leadership qualities
• Public speaking and presentation skills
• Interview and social etiquette
• Organizational and cooperative working skills

As part of this intensive eight-week leadership academy, CASIC interns will:

• Receive internship placement in the offices of elected officials. 
  This opportunity affords interns a unique hands-on experience in the legislative process, policy knowledge and constituent outreach. 

• Gain access to and insight from civic leaders through leadership workshops and seminars.
  Interns receive leadership training from elected officials and community leaders; meet and learn from Assemblymembers and Senators in Sacramento, and get a first-hand, inside perspective of how the government functions.

• Participate in local APA community events. 
  Interns act as liaisons between community and government, and gain a deeper understanding of the issues that affect their communities, and the APA community. 

How CASIC Interns Are Selected

Intern candidates will be selected on the basis of demonstrated academic and personal excellence, and involvement and leadership in extra curricular activities.  Previous students have been selected from such institutions as Ivy League schools, the campuses of the University of California, community colleges, and local high schools.  Graduates of the program have gone on to run for elected office, work on legislatives staffs, or work in the nonprofit sector. 

Click here to download the application form

*This program is organized and supervised by the CASIC Coalition, organized and led by Center for Asian Americans United for Self Empowerment (CAUSE), and includes support from various organizations such as Chinese American Citizens Alliance and generous contributions from private and corporate sponsors.