Each semester, we host ideologically diverse Fellows on campus, who expose students to a wide array of perspectives, broadening and challenging their understanding of government while strengthening civil dialogue on campus and within our community.

Our Fellows spend the semester leading study groups as well as hosting office hours, roundtable discussions, and dozens of bi-partisan CPF Political Conversations and conferences throughout the year.

Fellows Programs

Meet Our Current Fellows – CPF Fellows are specialists in practical politics, excelling in on-the-ground political strategies and robust, real-world policy solutions. They serve as an invaluable resource to USC students and the CPF community.

Fellows Study Groups – The cornerstone of the Fellows Program are their study groups, an in-depth seminar on the ins and outs of practical politics taught by a CPF Fellow. Far from political theory and academic journals, each study group runs once a week for 5-10 weeks and is jam-packed with VIP guest lecturers, unprecedented career and internship opportunities, and access to Center Fellows in and out of the classroom. Max 15 students per study group. All USC students are eligible to apply. Click here to sign up for a CPF Fellows study group.

Pizza and Politics Series – Enjoy FREE pizza and small group conversations. The Center for the Political Future (CPF) Fellows will go deep on current events, their careers, and whatever is on your mind. Moderated by CPF Fellows Manager Kayla Koerting.

Pizza and Politics will be held on the following Wednesdays from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. PT in SOS B15. See you September 6, September 20, October 4, October 18, and November 1.

Events are for USC students, faculty, and staff only.

Questions about Fellows, Pizza & Politics, or Study Groups? Contact CPF’s Fellows Program Manager, Kayla Koerting.

CPF Fellows FAQ

Is anyone able to apply to become a Fellow at CPF?

No. Participation in the CPF Fellows program is by invitation only. Fellows are invited to apply based on their ability to provide USC students with the best practical politics experience possible.

What does the Fellows application process entail?

Applicants must submit a resume and two letters of recommendation​. They will be submitted to Kayla Koerting, the Fellows Manager at the Center.

How long is the Fellowship?

CPF Fellowships are one semester long. The Fall term at USC runs from August to December, and the Spring term runs from January to May.

Do I need to live in Los Angeles to be a Fellow?

No. Fellows may commute to USC so long as they meet the 3-5 hour per week program minimum. Prior fellows have flown in from San Francisco and DC, taken the train from Santa Barbara, and driven in from across Southern California. Fellows can also move to Los Angeles for the duration of the fellowship, and CPF can help provide housing.

What are the time requirements of the fellowship?

Each Fellow teaches one study group, which is typically 2 hours per week. In addition, Fellows are asked to be available for 1-2 hours a week for office hours and participation in CPF programs.

Is housing provided?

Housing can be provided as part of the compensation package.

Is there a stipend?

Yes. Fellows receive a lump sum after the completion of their tenure. Compensation to be discussed at time of offer.

Are the Fellows provided an office?

Yes. Each Fellow is provided a private office and access to CPF Fellows Program Manager Kayla Koerting, who will provide administrative support and serve as the Fellows’ point of contact for any CPF related events.

Can Fellows bring outside guests to Fellows events and classes?

Yes. Guest speakers are highly encouraged. CPF has a budget to accommodate travel expenses for some guest lecturers.

Fellows Program: Hear From the Students

“As someone deeply interested in both journalism and politics, the Fellows Program has been a valuable and unique opportunity for me as a USC student. I was able to engage with, and learn from, renowned guest speakers who joined our class each week to discuss the Democratic debates and the future of both parties. I can’t express enough how incredible it was to have access to these leaders in the media and politics and to have candid, open conversations. Adam Nagourney was a great Fellow who actively encouraged our participation in the class and created an environment where students and guest speakers felt safe to discuss, debate, and question current events in real time.” Chandra Ingram, Journalism and International Relations and Global Economy

“Having the opportunity to be a part of the Center for Political Future’s Fellows Program was the highlight of my first semester at USC. My experience centered around taking a ten week course on the role of interest group politics in our federal government taught by Ron Christie, the former advisor to President George W. Bush. Throughout the ten weeks, our class got a behind-the-scenes look at the orthodox and unorthodox mechanisms of lawmaking in the lobbying process, legislative branch and executive office. With over thirty years of experience, Professor Christie’s was able to bring the subject matter and readings to life. I am extremely thankful for the Center for Political Future for providing me with this experience and I hope to continue to use it as a resource as I progress in my academic career.” Adam Jackman, Political Science

“While the American people continue to grow closer to online identities and virtual networks, it is strange that many have come to distrust journalists who, for decades, have packaged hard-hitting truths into “byte” sizes for the public. Through quite serious but feel-good storytelling, Ann Klenk revealed that what lies behind TV screens is the same as what lies behind your front door. With her rolodex of industry pioneers, she taught meaningful journalism through the eyes of people who are skeptics. Going into this class, there was so little I understood about the political world. And while I still do not know everything, this class taught to never be satisfied until I do.” Julianna Montano, Philosophy, Politics and Law