Urban Fellows Program
Apply now to the 2012 Urban Fellows Program!
Who?
Undergraduate students attending a Rochester-area college, and Rochester residents who attend college elsewhere, are encouraged to apply to the Urban Fellows Program, a unique ten-week summer program. Successful applicants will have a demonstrated interest in community or public service, urban issues, or other areas of civic engagement. Fellows receive stipends of $2,000 for their service with community based organizations and agencies in the Rochester community. The Urban Fellows Program is sponsored by University of Rochester and is made possible with the support of the Rochester Community Foundation, the Corporation for National and Community Service, and the J.P. Morgan Chase Foundation.
What?
The
Urban Fellows Program emphasizes civic engagement, promotes learning about
urban issues, and fosters an appreciation for cross-cultural issues and urban
life. The components of the program include:
Summer Fellowships
Students are placed in a paid fellowship in agencies located in the City of Rochester. Fellowship placements are in a variety of fields, including health care, education, public safety, women's issues, economic development, youth, faith-based activity, and housing. While student interest will be considered, placements are based on the needs of community organizations. Projects that previous Fellows have undertaken include business recruitment and marketing plan creation for neighborhood commercial development; working on neighborhood issues alongside a City Councilperson; a study of end-of-life issues at an inner-city health facility; development and delivery of services for runaway and homeless teens; an arts program at a juvenile residential facility; and researching health care needs and the disparities in African American communities.
Urban Issues Workshops
Students attend daylong seminars mid-week led by faculty members and community leaders. The seminars are designed to inform Fellows about the history, politics, demographics, and sociology of urban systems, with particular attention to Rochester. Seminars are complemented by an experiential component that includes off-campus visit, conversations with community leaders, and group discussions regarding the strengths and challenges facing the Rochester area.
Community/Cultural Based Activities
Students are invited and encouraged to participate in the cultural events and activities of the City, including neighborhood festivals, neighborhood association meetings, and other recreational and cultural events. Many of these gatherings include weekend and evening participation. Some events will be mandatory.
End of Summer Symposium
With support from staff and faculty, students develop a presentation based on their readings and experiences, and present this work at a closing ceremony at City Hall. All community and college participants are invited for this celebration. Some events will be mandatory.
Where?
The Urban Fellows Program is hosted at the University of Rochester. Students are provided with campus housing and group transportation during the ten-week period.
How?
Students interested in the Rochester Urban Fellows Program should submit a completed application with two letters of recommendation by Monday, February 27, 2012.
