Building Your Resume with the DREAM Project Fellowship Program

“By facing our challenges and overcoming them, we grow stronger, wiser, and more compassionate.” - John Templeton 

One of the things that was a constant stress to me throughout my first two years at UCI was the fact that I had no work experience. As much as I wanted to apply to internships and jobs, my undocumented status held me back. It was stressful knowing that work experience was something I would need as I applied to any future jobs, and that there was nothing I could really do about it. During this time, there were no internships that allowed someone like me, without DACA, to apply, but that all changed when the UCI DREAM Center introduced their DREAM Project Fellowship Program (DPF).

DPF is a program that allows undocumented students, with or without DACA, to apply to internships throughout campus. Along with a financial award, participants receive leadership skills through various workshops, a mentor, and a welcoming community. Participants interview with the different internships they are interested in and then are matched. The fellow then interns for the whole academic year, allowing them to build connections and gain work experience. 

Thanks to this program, I am now able to share my experiences with you all! This program has really helped me prepare for graduate school and build connections throughout campus. I am so grateful I was given the opportunity to grow and learn, and I can assure that anyone that participates will have so much to gain. 

Interested in learning more about the DREAM Project Fellowship Program or other services available to undocumented students through the DREAM Center? Visit dream.uci.edu!