Become A Fellow

College Corps is a paid service fellowship where SF State students work with local organizations to address real-world issues in K–12 education, food insecurity, and climate action. You’ll serve ~15 hours/week during the academic year, gain professional experience, and receive up to $10,000 in total benefits.

We’re looking for students who are:

• Passionate about creating positive change in diverse communities
• Flexible and open to trying new things
• Committed, reliable, and enthusiastic team players
• Interested in connecting with peers across California
• Able to commute to their host site (this is an in-person opportunity)
• Willing to represent College Corps on campus and beyond

General Eligibility Requirements:

• At least 18 years old by the program start date
• Full-time SF State undergraduate student (12+ units) in Fall 2025 & Spring 2026
• In good academic and conduct standing (min. 2.0 GPA)
• Open to:
  • U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or legal permanent residents (Live Scan required)
  • AB 540 / CA Dream Act students

Time Commitment:

• Complete 450 total hours across two semesters
• Expect to serve ~15–18 hours/week from August 2025 to May 2026
• Most roles are in-person with local community host partners

To qualify, students must meet at least one of the following criteria:

Option 1: Receive State or Federal Financial Aid

• U.S. Citizens/Permanent Residents: Submit your 2025–26 FAFSA
• AB 540 / CA Dream Act Students:
  • Submit 2025–26 CADAA
  • Be a Cal Grant B recipient
  • Submit CA DSIG application by Sept 1, 2025 to qualify for the $3,000 Education Award

✳️ AB 540 students: For help, contact the Dream Success Center or Griselda Madrigal Lara at gmadrigallara@sfsu.edu

Option 2: Need to Work Part-Time or Take Out Loans

• If you don’t receive aid but need income to support college costs, you're still eligible (U.S. citizens/permanent residents only)

Additional Eligibility Requirements:

• Vaccinations & Clearances: Some CHP sites require COVID-19 vaccination and TB clearance
• Site-Specific Onboarding: May include a volunteer packet and pre-site training (these hours count toward your 450-hour total)

• Serve 450 total hours (avg. 15–18 hours/week from August 2025 to May 2026)
• Attend mandatory training and events:
  • Orientation/Program Kick-off (Friday, Aug. 29, 2025 from 9:00am-5:00pm)
  • Bi-weekly Friday Team CIRCLES (fellows have option to choose morning session (9:30am-11:30am) or afternoon session (1:00-3:00pm)
  • Mid-Year Leadership Workshop (March/April 2026)
  • End of Year Celebration: Friday, May 15, 2026 (fellows have option to choose morning session (9:30am-11:30am) or afternoon session (1:00-3:00pm)
  • Bi-weekly 1:1 check-ins with College Corps staff
• Log hours regularly in the America Learns platform
• Maintain professional communication and follow host site expectations

You’ll be matched with a local nonprofit or public agency and take on meaningful projects like:

• Mentoring or tutoring in K–12 schools
• Supporting youth behavioral health and wellness
• Working on community gardens or climate initiatives
• Supporting food distribution and access programs

College Corps includes regular support through:

• Team CIRCLES: Bi-weekly cohort meetings to share, reflect, and learn
• Site Supervisor check-ins and feedback
• 1:1 coaching with your College Corps coordinator
• Virtual trainings and workshops to deepen your skills

• Living allowance (paid throughout the year)
• $3,000 Education Award after completing 450 hours
• Real-world experience in your field
• Networking with campus and community leaders
• Resume-building and potential letters of recommendation

Don’t just get a job—make an impact. College Corps is more than a service opportunity; it’s a launchpad for your future. When you become a Fellow, you’ll gain:

• Comprehensive Support: Get hands-on training and ongoing guidance from experienced staff and site supervisors.
• Real-World Experience: Work on meaningful projects that improve local communities—developing practical, career-ready skills.
• Financial Assistance: Receive a monthly living allowance to help cover expenses while you serve.
• Education Award: Earn a $3,000 Segal Education Award after completing 450 hours, which can be used for tuition or student loans.
• Networking & Connections: Join a statewide network of Fellows who are passionate about service and social impact.
• Resume Boost: Stand out with relevant experience in education, climate, and community service sectors.
• Sense of Purpose: Know that your work matters—and that you're part of something bigger than yourself.

💬 “This experience helped me grow as a student, a leader, and a changemaker.” – Former Fellow

College Corps is a shared commitment. Here’s how we work together:

💪 Your Commitment:

• Service Time: Average of 15 hours/week from Aug 2025–May 2026 (with possible summer extension).
• Recordkeeping: Submit bi-weekly timesheets to track your service.
• Community Engagement: Support events and help recruit volunteers for projects—usually on Saturdays or State/National Days of Service.
• Training: Attend monthly professional development sessions (typically Fridays).
• Be Present: Commit to your site, your team, and your focus area (Education, Food Insecurity, or Climate Action).

🌟 Our Commitment to You:

• Up to $10,000 in Total Support: Including a living stipend and education award.
• Training & Development: Learn career-ready skills through orientation, trainings, and hands-on experience.
• Real-World Experience: Apply your academic learning in real community contexts.
• Leadership Community: Collaborate with young changemakers from across California, united by purpose and service.

👥 “We’re here to support you at every step—professionally, personally, and with purpose.”