How to Apply

Application Process

The application process is designed to allow students to demonstrate that they have the qualities that will make them a successful fellow. Applicants must:

1. Complete the Fellowship cover sheet, which you can download by clicking here (.pdf, 302kb).
2. Prepare a 1,000 word essay in which they describe the project they will pursue and their plan and timeline for completing it; explain the experiences and skills that will enable them to be successful; discuss the passionate interest the project will enable them to pursue; and reflect on how the project will contribute to their intellectual and personal growth and benefit the larger community.
3. Prepare a budget outlining the expenses they will incur in successfully completing their project.
4. Obtain reference letters from two individuals who can assess their ability to complete the project successfully.
5. If the project will be conducted with the cooperation of, or under the auspices of an organization, group, or individual, the applicant must include with the application a letter of sponsorship from the individual or organization.
6. Submit a resume that includes employment history, internships completed, service activities, academic and other honors, and special skills such as fluency in languages other than English and technological competencies.
7. Participate in an interview with the selection committee if chosen as a finalist.
8. Make a public presentation on their activities and accomplishments as a fellow once they have completed the fellowship and returned to campus.

Application Deadline and Review

Applications must be submitted to Linda McManamon in the Harpur College Dean’s Office no later than December 10, 2012. They will be reviewed by a selection committee consisting of faculty and staff from the Harpur Dean’s Office, which will select a small group of applicants to participate in interviews. The interview will allow committee members to ask questions about the applicants and their proposals and get a better sense of their passion for their project and likelihood of completing it. Interviews for finalists will be scheduled during the first week of classes in the spring semester, with awards being announced by March.

Criteria for Selection

Applications will be evaluated by the selection committee to determine whether they demonstrate that the applicant has the passion, intellectual ability, organizational skills, and experience necessary to complete the project. In evaluating applications, the committee will consider:

1. The clarity, thoughtfulness, and thoroughness of the essay describing the project;
2. The feasibility of completing the project during the time allotted and with the budget proposed;
3. Whether the budget is well planned and will enable the applicant to complete the project economically;
4. Whether the applicant has genuine passion for the project;
5. How the project will benefit a particular community;
6. Whether the project will significantly contribute to the applicant’s personal and intellectual growth.