The CHCI Graduate Fellowship Program seeks to enhance participants' leadership abilities, strengthen professional skills and produce more competent and competitive Latino professionals.The nine month paid Fellowship Program offers exceptional Latinos who have earned at least a master's degree within three years of the program start date with unparalleled exposure to hands-on experience in the public policy areas of higher education, secondary education, health, housing, law, STEM (Science Technology, Engineering and Math).
Work Experience
After a week-long orientation, and with CHCI's guidance, Graduate fellows research opportunities to work in a Congressional office or committee that best matches their interest and focus area. Participants will have the option of changing placements mid-way through the program. Second half placements can include The White House, federal agencies and nonprofit organizations.
Leadership Development
The Graduate fellows' intensive work experience is enhanced by weekly leadership training sessions that allow them to meet with national leaders and engage in substantive policy discussions. In addition, Graduate fellows produce a public policy brief. Graduate fellows also must organize a policy summit. Because of the wealth of information, contacts, and political activity in Washington D.C., the Graduate Fellowship Program offers an excellent opportunity for participants to affirm their career goals. All participants also receive personal support and guidance from CHCI staff and Alumni Association.
Community Service
Fellows are required to engage in a group community service project identified through the CHCI fellowship program. This component of the curriculum allows fellows to identify areas of civic engagement and give back to the community. Fellows are also required to complete individual community service along with the group community service project.
Specific Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must have completed a master's degree or post-graduate degree prior to the program start date
- High academic achievement (3.0 GPA or higher)
- Evidence of leadership skills and potential for leadership growth
- Demonstrates commitment to public service-oriented activities
- Superior analytical skills, outstanding oral and written communication skills
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, asylees, or individuals who are lawfully authorized to work full-time without restriction for any U.S. employer and who, at the time of application, possess lawful evidence of employment authorization.
- NOTE: Individuals who are seeking consideration under the “Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival” (DACA) policy must possess an Employment Authorization Document at the time of application