Finding a Fellowship

Because… sometimes diggin' deep is the way to a great experience.

It is possible to get a fellowship as a recent undergraduate student. Fellowships and internships are very similar, so sometimes you will find fellowship listings in the same places you might find internship opportunities. A fellowship is a short term opportunity (6 months to 2 years) with an organization that is looking to research a specific topic, develop leaders within its field, and/or develop an initiative or program.

There are many benefits to being a fellow:

• Gaining experience unparalleled in the classroom
• Exploring a career field of interest, reflecting on experiences
• Identifying an employer or organization or industry for full-time employment after college
• Financial compensation, loan deferment, going to seminars or conferences, housing stipends and other perks
• Acquiring leadership skills and developing transferable skills for future career paths
• Graduate study in a specific field or community
• The opportunity to establish vital career networks and mentors

Working as a Fellow:

Fellowships are structured to provide significant work experiences and fellows are often expected to take on a great deal of responsibility early in the program. Some of the experiential learning components offered to fellows could be:

• Designing a research proposal and implementing it
• A part-time or full-time internship in an organization chosen by the fellow
• A team project developed by a group of current fellows
• An independent project proposed by and funded by the fellowship program
• Working in community based programs in education, nonprofits, NGOs - in directed field studies or in other directed field placements.

Applications
The application process for fellowships varies greatly. Most require a resume and an essay, but some require letters of recommendation and interviews. Research each fellowship and application separately.

Fellowship Listings:
Career Center Connector
Rackham Fellowship Office
Fellowship Listings
International Fellowships and Scholarships