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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 ÃÛÌÒ½´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 SMU, so there is no financial burden on the agency.

If you need help finding nonprofit organizations to reach out to, click . 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 .
Download sponsoring organization letter template .

 

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, location, 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 .

 

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. ÃÛÌÒ½´Faculty/Staff Reference Letter

Ask an ÃÛÌÒ½´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 .
Download a faculty/staff reference letter template . 

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.

Shape your summer. Make an impact. Start your fellowship journey today.