2025 Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship: The Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship is a distinguished program designed to cultivate leadership skills among undergraduate students committed to public service. Established in honor of Howard Peters “Pete” Rawlings, a dedicated Maryland House of Delegates member, the fellowship emphasizes advocacy for underrepresented communities and ethical leadership.
2025 Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship
The Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for University of Maryland students to develop leadership skills, engage in meaningful community service, and prepare for careers dedicated to public good. By participating, fellows honor the legacy of Howard Peters “Pete” Rawlings and contribute to creating a more just and equitable society. Through a combination of academic coursework, hands-on project work, internships, and mentorship, the program prepares students to be leaders who will shape the future of public service in meaningful ways.
The fellowship is an excellent stepping stone for students passionate about public service, providing the skills, connections, and experiences necessary to thrive in a wide range of careers. Whether aiming for a role in government, nonprofit organizations, or social justice advocacy, fellows leave the program with a broader understanding of leadership and a stronger commitment to public service.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship |
| Institution | University of Maryland (UMD) |
| Target Audience | UMD undergraduate students with at least two semesters remaining before graduation |
| Program Duration | One academic year (Fall and Spring semesters) |
| Application Deadline | March 24, 2025 |
| Program Components | – Leadership development seminar- Community Action Project (CAP)- Internship with public service entities- Mentorship opportunities- Professional development workshops- Site visits to public and nonprofit organizations |
| Benefits | – $1,000 fellowship upon completion- Certificate of completion- Enhanced leadership and public service skills |
| Official Website | Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellows Program |
Program Overview
The Rawlings Fellowship offers a comprehensive, year-long experience that combines academic learning with practical application. Fellows engage in leadership seminars, collaborate on community projects, undertake internships, and receive mentorship from esteemed public leaders.
Fall Semester
- Leadership Development Seminar: Fellows enroll in a three-credit course titled “PLCY388N: Advancing Justice through Leadership and Social Change.” This seminar explores leadership styles, advocacy methods, and addresses social policy issues related to cultural pluralism.
- Community Action Project (CAP): In small groups, fellows design and implement projects aimed at addressing policy challenges in underserved communities near the UMD campus. These projects provide hands-on experience in leadership and community service.
- Collective Service Project: Beyond individual projects, fellows collaborate on a one-day community service initiative, fostering teamwork and a collective commitment to public service.
Spring Semester
- Elective Course: Fellows select a three-credit policy elective to deepen their understanding of specific public leadership topics.
- Internship: Fellows secure internships with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or political entities, applying their leadership skills in real-world settings.
- Professional Development Workshops: Throughout the semester, fellows participate in workshops that enhance their leadership capabilities and prepare them for future roles in public service.
- CAP Implementation: Groups continue to develop and implement their Community Action Projects, translating their ideas into tangible community benefits.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Rawlings Fellowship, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Enrollment Status: Be an undergraduate student at the University of Maryland with at least two semesters remaining before graduation.
- Commitment to Public Service: Demonstrate a strong dedication to public leadership and community engagement.
- Application Materials: Submit a cover letter detailing interest in the program, a resume, and an essay addressing the role of an ideal public leader in state or local communities.
2025 Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship Application Process
Interested students should follow these steps to apply:
- Prepare Application Materials: Gather a cover letter, resume, and essay as specified in the eligibility criteria.
- Submit Application: Complete the online application form and upload all required documents.
- Application Deadline: Ensure all materials are submitted by March 24, 2025.
- Contact Information: For questions, reach out to Rawlings Program Coordinator, Maleeha Coleburn, at [email protected].
NUS Young Fellowship 2025 Application – Apply online Before Deadline
Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study Fellowship 2025 Announced – Apply Now
2025 American Summer Fellowship Applications Started – How to Apply Online, Check Eligibility
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Rawlings Fellowship open to students from all majors?
Yes, the fellowship welcomes applications from students across all academic disciplines who are passionate about public service.
2. How many students are selected for the fellowship each year?
The program typically selects a cohort of fellows each year; the exact number may vary based on available resources.
3. Are the internships provided by the program paid?
Internship arrangements, including compensation, are determined by the hosting organizations. Fellows are encouraged to seek paid opportunities when possible.
4. Can transfer students apply for the fellowship?
Yes, transfer students who meet the eligibility criteria and have at least two semesters remaining at UMD are encouraged to apply.
5. What support is available for implementing the Community Action Project?
Fellows receive guidance from program staff, access to resources, and a budget to support their projects.
Additional Program Insights
The Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship not only equips students with leadership skills but also nurtures their commitment to ethical governance and public service. The program provides essential exposure to working with diverse community groups and stakeholders. Fellows benefit from tailored mentorship opportunities, which help them develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and complexities of leadership in the public sector.
Networking Opportunities
One of the standout features of the Rawlings Fellowship is its networking opportunities. Fellows engage with accomplished public figures, mentors, and alumni who provide insight into career paths in public policy, government, and nonprofit leadership. Networking events and site visits expose fellows to the inner workings of public institutions and organizations dedicated to community improvement.
Through this experience, students gain practical knowledge about the nuances of public leadership, including navigating legislative processes, ethical decision-making, and community organizing. These experiences are crucial for students who aspire to become leaders in government, nonprofit organizations, or other sectors that impact public welfare.
Community Engagement
Community service is at the heart of the Rawlings Fellowship. The program’s emphasis on Community Action Projects (CAP) encourages fellows to address tangible issues in their communities. These projects, ranging from environmental sustainability initiatives to education reform efforts, allow fellows to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, providing students with an invaluable opportunity to make a difference.
Additionally, fellows are encouraged to work closely with local community organizations, understanding the needs of marginalized populations and developing solutions that can have a lasting impact. These hands-on experiences empower students to become advocates for social justice and equity.
