Maryland PIRG Staff
Nicole Allen is the Maryland PIRG Textbook Advocate and director of the Make Textbooks Affordable project. Since 2007, she has worked with students, faculty and decision-makers across the country to address the rapidly rising cost of college textbooks through grassroots organizing, public education and advocacy.
Nationally recognized as a leading issue expert, Ms. Allen's research and opinions have been cited in numerous publications including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and USA Today.
A life-long activist, Ms. Allen began her career in higher education advocacy as a student at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, WA, where she graduated in 2006 with a degree in Philosophy.
Internships

Work on important issues, learn valuable skills, get hands-on experience, and make a difference.
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Students let Professors know they want more affordable Textbooks!
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College Park citizens cast their votes in the City Council election. -
Students participate in a survey about water bottle use and accessibility to refilling stations on campus.
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Tabling at the First Look Fair with over 200 other student groups!
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The Textbook Rebellion comes to town demonstrating the need for more affordable textbooks. -
Calling interested volunteers to Get Involved with MaryPIRG!
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Our zombie volunteers exemplify what happens to textbooks after they 'die' at the end of the semester.
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The Food Recovery Network donates another carload of food to the hungry in DC. -
Follow the Vote Goat to vote during the city council election.
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MaryPIRG students collect canned food for the Canpaign at UMD.
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Gravestone from the Textbooks Graveyard showing the need for more affordable textbook options.