Fellowship or Service Program Pathway

Explore Fellowship or Service Program

Fellowship or Service Program Overview

Fellowship or service programs are paid positions that generally span one or two years with an organization, often a nonprofit. They often provide individuals with opportunities to engage in meaningful community service or social impact work, while also encouraging personal growth and developing leadership skills. Applicants apply to the program and, once accepted, are trained for a specific role for the duration of the program. Roles are often located at a different site, such as a school. At the conclusion of the program, participants move on to different careers and/or organizations. Fellowship programs train you for roles related to Education, Media and Journalism, Healthcare, Public Policy and Government, Environment and Sustainability, Social Entrepreneurship and Non-profits, and Technology. Fellowship programs are often in person and many require people to move to the location of the fellowship program. Most fellowship programs are considered employment and thus the participants do not have other employment. However, some programs require participants to secure their own employment as a condition of the fellowship. Fellowships provide important work experience and training to prepare for a career, and are not meant to be the highest paid positions related to that career. A fellowship is valuable because of the work experience, training, and professional network it helps you build. However, fellowship programs typically do not offer support with the job application process.

Fellowship or Service Program

This short video gives an overview of what this pathway is all about.

Specifics

Cost

No cost, paid opportunity

Typical Format

In-Person Only

Typical Length

1-3 years

Time Commitments

Full-Time

Typical Schedule

Scheduled

Payment Options

Earn while you learn

Possible Outcomes

Skill and/or networking with potential employers

Financial Aid Options

N/A--Paid Opportunity

Best For You If...

You are

Sure of the industry you want to pursue, but not the exact career.
Recently graduated from high school and are pursuing an experience to learn and develop leadership through service to others.
Looking for some support to find employment.

You are able to

Meet expectations when there are clear and specific responsibilities and deadlines.
Be a reliable and teachable employee.
Begin & participate in work & training at any time throughout the year

You like

Attending class or work in person
Practicing a skill hands-on
Working on a team

Enrollment Information

Fellowship programs typically offer various enrollment options throughout the year depending on the fellowship provider. Many fellowship programs are competitive and require an application, essay questions, resumes, letters of recommendation, and several rounds of interviews.

Application Type

Selective Application

Entry Qualifications

High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED or HiSET)

Academic Record

Range of High School GPAs Accepted