Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship 2025: The Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship 2025 offers an exceptional opportunity for University of Maryland students who are passionate about public leadership, advocacy, and social change. Named after the esteemed Maryland legislator Howard Peters “Pete” Rawlings, this fellowship nurtures future leaders through mentorship, hands-on projects, and professional development opportunities.
If you’re a student eager to enhance your leadership skills, gain practical experience, and contribute meaningfully to society, this fellowship could be your ideal opportunity.
Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Duration | One academic year |
| Eligibility | University of Maryland undergraduates with at least two semesters remaining. |
| Financial Support | $1,000 fellowship upon successful completion |
| Key Components | Leadership training, mentorship, and a Community Action Project (CAP) |
| Application Deadline | March 24, 2025 |
| Official Website | School of Public Policy – UMD |
The Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship 2025 is an incredible opportunity for students seeking to develop leadership skills, make a tangible impact in their communities, and gain valuable experience in public policy. With its combination of mentorship, practical learning, and financial support, this fellowship offers a comprehensive pathway for aspiring leaders to thrive.
Why Choose the Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship 2025?
The Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship is more than just a scholarship program; it’s a transformative experience designed to develop leadership, public policy, and social change skills. Participants receive:
- Leadership Training: Engage in a fall semester leadership development seminar (PLCY388N: Advancing Justice through Leadership and Social Change).
- Mentorship: Receive personalized guidance from faculty members, experienced teaching assistants, and professional mentors.
- Practical Experience: Develop a Community Action Project (CAP) focused on resolving real policy challenges in Maryland communities.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals in public service through site visits and professional development events.
- Financial Award: A $1,000 stipend to support your participation and project development.
Moreover, the fellowship emphasizes both academic growth and practical application. This blend of theory and practice helps students develop tangible leadership skills that can be directly applied to their careers and communities. Participants often form lifelong relationships with their peers, mentors, and faculty members, strengthening their professional network.
Who Can Apply For Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship 2025?
To qualify for the Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship, you must:
- Be an undergraduate student at the University of Maryland.
- Have at least two semesters remaining at the start of the Fall 2025 semester.
- Show commitment to public leadership, advocacy, or social justice.
The program is open to students from all majors, making it accessible to a diverse range of applicants interested in societal change. This inclusiveness allows participants from various academic backgrounds to collaborate, share ideas, and create impactful solutions for real-world challenges.
How to apply for Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship 2025
The application process is straightforward but requires thoughtful preparation. Follow these steps to ensure your application stands out:
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Visit the official School of Public Policy – UMD website and submit the application form. Ensure all details are accurate and complete. Take time to proofread your responses to ensure clarity and precision.
Step 2: Prepare a Strong Personal Statement
Your personal statement should highlight:
- Why you’re passionate about public leadership and social change.
- How your experiences have prepared you for this fellowship.
- What impact you hope to make through the Community Action Project.
Consider sharing specific stories, volunteer work, or advocacy efforts that demonstrate your leadership skills. Providing concrete examples helps illustrate your potential to succeed as a Rawlings Fellow.
Step 3: Submit Your Resume
Craft a professional resume that emphasizes your leadership skills, volunteer work, and relevant experiences. Tailor your achievements to align with the program’s objectives. Highlight transferable skills such as communication, project management, and teamwork to show how your background aligns with the fellowship’s mission.
Step 4: Request a Letter of Recommendation
Request a letter from a faculty member or professional mentor who can vouch for your leadership potential and dedication to social justice. Provide them ample time to write a thoughtful recommendation. Offer your recommender relevant information about the program and your personal goals so they can write a targeted, impactful letter.
Step 5: Meet the Deadline
The final deadline for submitting your application is March 24, 2025. Ensure all materials are submitted before this date to avoid disqualification. Submitting early allows you to avoid last-minute technical issues or rushed application materials.
What to Expect as a Rawlings Fellow
The fellowship is designed to provide immersive learning experiences. Key program elements include:
1. Leadership Development Seminar
During the fall semester, fellows participate in a 3-credit course (PLCY388N) that focuses on leadership theory, social change strategies, and practical skills for addressing social issues. This course combines classroom learning with hands-on activities to deepen your understanding of leadership in practice.
2. Mentorship and Support
Fellows are paired with mentors who provide personalized guidance throughout the program. Mentors offer career advice, academic insights, and support for your Community Action Project. The mentorship experience often extends beyond the fellowship, providing valuable career connections and insights.
3. Community Action Project (CAP)
A major highlight of the fellowship is the CAP, where fellows identify a pressing issue in a Maryland community and implement a solution. Past projects have addressed topics such as:
- Education equity
- Environmental sustainability
- Youth mentorship programs
CAPs often provide long-term benefits to the community, with some projects continuing to operate years after the fellowship ends. Fellows gain real-world problem-solving experience by designing, implementing, and evaluating their projects.
4. Professional Development Opportunities
Fellows participate in networking events, site visits, and workshops that connect them with public service professionals. This exposure broadens career opportunities and enhances leadership skills. The program encourages fellows to explore internships, fellowships, and career pathways in policy, advocacy, and social impact sectors.
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FAQs About Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship 2025
1. Who can apply for the Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellowship?
Any undergraduate student at the University of Maryland with at least two semesters remaining is eligible to apply. The program is open to students from all majors.
2. What is the financial benefit of the fellowship?
Selected fellows receive a $1,000 stipend upon successful completion of the program requirements.
3. What should I include in my personal statement?
Your personal statement should focus on your leadership experience, passion for social change, and how you plan to leverage the fellowship to create meaningful impact.
4. How competitive is the application process?
The selection process is competitive, with applicants evaluated on their leadership potential, commitment to public service, and the quality of their application materials.
5. Can I participate if I’m majoring in a non-policy-related field?
Absolutely! The fellowship is designed for students across all disciplines who are passionate about public leadership and advocacy.
