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UC Systemwide Committees F.A.Q

1) What kind of qualifications do I need to serve on a Systemwide Committee?

The most important qualifications, besides being a full-time UC student, are that you are interested and willing to learn. You are not expected to be an expert on the issues addressed by your committee, but you are expected to spend time learning about the UC system and the issues facing your committee. The University of California students are counting on you to represent them.

2) What is the time commitment?

Some committees meet only twice a year, while others meet almost twice a month. Further, as a committee member you will receive a good amount of information on relevant issues that you will need to read prior to attending any meeting. It is a serious time commitment; but it is not an overwhelming one.

3) Do I get paid? Who pays for my travel?

Sorry, you do not get paid. However, the University of California does pay for round-trip transportation and transportation-related expenses to official meetings. For more information, download the travel policies or contact Susan Shinomoto at 510-987-9598 or Maria Q.Blandizzi at 510-987-9210.

4) Who oversees these Systemwide Committees?

The majority of the committees report to the UC Academic Senate. The Office of the President and certain State Government agencies oversee a handful of committees as well.

5) What is my responsibility to the UC Student Association (UCSA)?

UCSA oversees student selection and participation in Systemwide Committees. You are expected to write a short summary of the issues discussed in your committee meeting and submit it prior to every UCSA Board Meeting. Further, you are expected to inform UCSA if there is an issue on which you feel the UC Students should take a stand. You are also invited to attend all UCSA Board Meetings and report on your committee in-person.

6) Why should I do this?

It's a fantastic experience and a great time! You get to meet faculty and administrators from throughout the system. You can develop policy that directly affects your academic career and the experiences of future generations of UC students. You will learn about how the University truly operates. Oh, and it also looks pretty sharp on that resume!