[Deadline November 1, 2024] The CSIS Policy Fellowship

The CSIS Policy Fellowship is a unique opportunity for undergraduates from historically underrepresented backgrounds to dive deep into the world of national security. This program, run by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), offers fellows a chance to engage with leading policy experts, develop critical skills, and network with professionals in Washington, D.C.

Fellowship Overview

The CSIS Policy Fellowship seeks to empower students who are passionate about national security, extending beyond traditional defense to include areas such as human security, climate change, technology, and more. Over the course of 15 weeks, selected fellows will engage in professional development seminars, geopolitical briefings, and networking events aimed at fostering connections and positioning them for successful careers in policy.

This program is open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors attending universities in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region. The program runs from January 28 to May 8, 2025, and fellows will receive a $1,500 stipend to support their participation.

Program Details

• Course Date: January 28 – May 8, 2025
• Location: CSIS Headquarters or Virtual
• Tuition: Free
• Stipend: $1,500
• Application Deadline: November 1, 2024
• Application Opens: September 30, 2024

Who Should Apply?

The fellowship is designed for students who are passionate about policy and national security. Applicants should:

• Be enrolled as sophomores, juniors, or seniors at eligible universities in the DMV region.
• Have a commitment to public service and making a difference in the world through policy.
• Demonstrate an interest in national security, broadly defined, and are eager to engage with policy leaders.
• Come from a historically marginalized background, including but not limited to individuals of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, Indigenous populations, or socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Fellows are required to attend at least 11 of the 13 scheduled sessions and participate in two mandatory bootcamp days on January 28th and January 30th.

Key Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the fellowship, fellows will have gained:

• A comprehensive understanding of global and regional security trends.
• Enhanced communication skills to synthesize and present complex policy ideas.
• A network of peers, mentors, and professionals in Washington, D.C.
• Professional skills that are highly valued in today’s job market.

How to Apply

Applications for the CSIS Policy Fellowship open on September 30, 2024, and close on November 1, 2024. Candidates will be notified by early December if selected. The application process is competitive, and students are encouraged to apply early.

APPLY HERE 

Eligible Universities

The fellowship is available to students from the following universities:

• American University (DC)
• Bowie State University (MD)
• Georgetown University (DC)
• George Mason University (VA)
• Howard University (DC)
• Morgan State University (MD)
• University of Maryland, College Park (MD)
  And several others in the DMV region.

Curriculum

The fellowship curriculum is designed to provide a holistic view of national security and equip fellows with the tools to succeed in the policy world. It includes three key components:

1. Foreign Policy Seminars: Engaging with experts on topics like international development, tech policy, and human rights.
2. Professional Skill-Building: Workshops to enhance leadership, networking, and communication skills.
3. Capstone Project: Fellows will work in groups to tackle real-world policy challenges and present their solutions to CSIS experts.

Sponsorship Opportunities

CSIS covers all costs for the fellowship to ensure that it is accessible to all students, regardless of financial background. If you are interested in sponsoring the fellowship, please contact Donatienne Ruy, Director of the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Academy at [email protected].

For any questions about the fellowship, contact Julieze Benjamin at [email protected] or Veronica McIntire at [email protected].

This fellowship offers a valuable stepping stone for students aspiring to make a difference in the world of policy and national security. Be sure to apply by November 1, 2024, to be considered for the 2025 cohort.