About the Fellowship

The fellowship provides funding for students to dedicate 200+ summer hours to meaningful public service work or ethics-based research.

• Stipends: $2,000 for undergraduates | $2,400 for graduate students
• Eligibility: Full-time 色花堂_色花堂 98堂 students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher returning to campus for Fall 2025.
• Timing: Fellowships run from June through August.

 

Best Practices for Securing a Sponsoring Organization

Step 1: Choose a Focus Area

Start by reflecting on the kind of public service or ethics research that excites you. Ask yourself:

• What causes, issues, or challenges matter most to me?
• Is there a particular community or organization I want to serve?
• How can I apply my academic knowledge or skills to create meaningful impact?
• Do I want to engage in public service or ethics research?

Some areas to consider:

• Social Services: Nonprofits tackling hunger, housing, or community health
• Education: Organizations supporting youth, literacy, or mentorship programs
• Research: Projects related to ethics, policy, or social justice
• Global Service: Opportunities with international agencies

You can find a list of previous sponsoring organizations here.

 

Step 2: Connect Your Focus Area with Potential Sponsoring Organization

You are responsible for identifying an agency or organization to support your project. Here’s how to begin:

1. Research Organizations:
   • Look for local, national, or international nonprofits, research centers, or advocacy groups that align with your focus area.
   • Review agency websites, volunteer opportunities, or current initiatives that align with your interests.
2. Prepare for Conversations:
   • Be ready to explain the fellowship requirements: 200 hours of service, supervision, and a brief end-of-summer report.
   • Share your project ideas and how you plan to contribute to the organization’s mission.
   • Emphasize that the stipend is provided through 色花堂_色花堂 98堂, so there is no financial burden on the agency.

If you need help finding nonprofit organizations to reach out to, click here. Need help finding a sponsoring organization or professional communication? We encourage you to reach out to the Hegi Family Career Development Center.

 

Step 3: Secure the Sponsorship Letter

1. Make Contact:
   • Identify a key staff member at the organization (e.g., volunteer coordinator, program manager, or executive director).
   • Send a professional email introducing yourself and the fellowship opportunity.
   • Ask if the organization would be willing to supervise a summer service project and provide a sponsoring letter to confirm their commitment
2. Once you’ve identified a placement site, ask the primary contact that you will be working with at the sponsoring organization you choose to provide a Sponsoring Organization Letter that:
• Confirms the agency’s agreement to host and supervise your fellowship.
• Outlines your tasks, responsibilities, and project goals.
• States the supervisor’s commitment to overseeing your 200 hours of work over the summer.

Download example of a sponsoring organization letter from a previous Public Service Fellowship application here.
Download sponsoring organization letter template here.

 

Application Components

1. Biography

Write a brief, 1-page biography that provides context for why you’re applying. Highlight:

• Your Story: Personal experiences that inspired your interest in public service or ethics.
• Academics: Relevant coursework, achievements, or areas of study.
• Experience: Internships, jobs, or volunteer roles that demonstrate your skills and readiness for the fellowship.
  
  

2. Fellowship Proposal

Your 2–4-page proposal is the heart of your application. Be clear, detailed, and specific.

Components to Include:

1. Overview of Your Project:
   • A concise summary of your proposed project, including goals and objectives.
2. Connection to Ethics and Public Service:
   • Explain how your project addresses ethical challenges or contributes to public service.
   • Be sure to indicate whether you are engaging in public service or ethics research.
3. Details of Your Placement:
   • Include the organization’s name, locations, and a summary of its mission.
   • Outline your specific tasks and responsibilities.
4. Impact and Need:
   • Describe the issue your project addresses and the impact it will have on the community or organization.
5. Stipend Justification:
   • Explain why the funding is critical to your participation, addressing any financial constraints (travel, living expenses, unpaid work, etc.).

View examples of previous Public Service Fellowship proposal and biographies here.

 

3. Sponsoring Organization Letter

• Confirm the agency’s support for your project and supervision of your 200 hours.
• State the supervisor’s role in your fellowship and the goals of your project.

4. 色花堂_色花堂 98堂 Faculty/Staff Reference Letter

Ask an 色花堂_色花堂 98堂 faculty or staff member who knows you well to provide a reference letter that:

• Speaks to your academic strengths and preparation for the project.
• Highlights your commitment to ethics, public service, or related experiences.
• Endorses your readiness for the fellowship.

Read previous fellows’ faculty/staff reference letters here.
Download a faculty/staff reference letter template here. 

Tips for a Strong Application

• Start early! Securing a sponsoring organization can take time.
• Be clear and specific in your proposal about what you will do, why it matters, and how it connects to ethics and public service.
• Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and readiness.
• Proofread all materials for clarity and professionalism.