Who we are
We are proudly bipartisan and inclusive, providing space for a wide range of ideological perspectives—as long as arguments are grounded in evidence, respectful discourse, and a sincere interest in public policy. Our editorial standards prioritize analytical rigor, respectful debate, and intellectual humility.
We believe that policy is at the heart of how society addresses its greatest challenges—whether it’s regulating artificial intelligence, reforming healthcare systems, reducing economic inequality, addressing climate change, or strengthening democratic institutions. Our mission is to help UCLA students not only understand these issues, but actively participate in the conversations that shape their outcomes.
BUPR operates on three central pillars:
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Our online journal regularly publishes high-quality student-written articles and op-eds on a wide range of policy topics. Every article is edited collaboratively and held to high standards of research-backed evidence, clarity, and argumentation. Writers may choose to analyze existing legislation, examine the potential implications of a particular policy proposal, or compare different approaches to policy issues between administrations and Congresses. We publish both analytical features and shorter, opinion-driven pieces—allowing students to explore a topic with depth or express a clear policy stance supported by research.
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Each week, the Bruin Undergraduate Policy Review distributes a student-produced newsletter that highlights key legislative developments in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, education, criminal justice, immigration, environmental, and fiscal/economic policy. Sector Sector leaders track federal and state-level developments, summarize the core elements of proposed or passed bills, and offer context for their potential implications. The newsletter aims to help students stay informed about fast-moving policy landscapes in a concise, accessible format with insight from their peers.
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To connect passion-driven writing and research with professional pathways, the Bruin Undergraduate Policy Review hosts speaker events featuring experts across the policy landscape. This includes analysts from think tanks, government officials, journalists, political science professors, attorneys, legislative staffers, nonprofit leaders, and others working at the intersection of policy and practice. Events are held either over Zoom or in-person, and are designed to expose our analysts to a variety of career paths while creating opportunities to network with professionals in the field. We also plan resume-building workshops, internship panels, and career Q&As.
Meet The Board
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Henry Sowells
CO-FOUNDER
Major: Political Science
Year: Fourth
From: Bethesda, Maryland
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Eliana Bernstein
CO-FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Major: Political Science
Minor: Professional Writing
Year: Fourth
From: Pacific Palisades, California
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Micki Porcaro
CO-FOUNDER & DIRECTOR OF OUTREACH
Major: Sociology
Minor: Global Studies
Year: Fourth
From: Studio City, California