James Tedjasaputra is a senior graduating in June 2012 with a BA in Business Economics. His submission was entitled "Motivation Through Legislation" and outlined his experience as an intern in Washington, DC at the Office of Senator Barbara Boxer. He participated in the UCDC program in Winter 2012. "Living and working in Washington submerged me into the world of politics," said Tedjasaputra in his award winning essay. "It created a personal drive within me to stay well-informed. It has let me to an interest in a career advocating for public policies, most specifically public education."

Marissa Walters is a senior graduating in August 2012 with a BA in Psychology. Her submission "Inspiring Justice" gave an overview of her experience as an intern in Washington, DC with the Genocide Intervention Network and Save Darfur. She participated in the UCDC program in Spring 2011. "My actions as an intern aided in the development of this large and powerful activist network," she said in her essay. "My most inspiring duty came when I attended anti-genocide rallies outside of the White House. I learned that my voice does matter, not just within my politics or my relationships, but even in my future career."