Are you passionate about global affairs and international diplomacy? The Thomas R. Pickering Graduate Foreign Affairs Program Fellowship 2025 offers an exciting opportunity for students looking to kick-start their careers in foreign policy and international relations. This fellowship is designed to provide hands-on experience in the world of diplomacy while offering financial support and professional development opportunities.
OPPORTUNITY AT A GLANCE:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | U.S. citizens, seeking admission to a two-year master’s degree program, cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher ¹ ² ³ |
| Application Deadline | September 26, 2024, 11:59 PM EST ⁴ ¹ ² ³ |
| Benefits | Financial support up to $42,000/year, two summer internships, mentoring, professional development, employment in the Foreign Service ¹ ² ³ |
| Application Requirements | Updated CV/resume, personal statement, academic transcripts, two letters of recommendation ⁴ |
| Selection Process | Panel review, virtual interview, written exercise ⁴ ² |
| Program Duration | Two years, with a minimum five-year service commitment in the Foreign Service ¹ ² |
| Fellowship Value | Up to $84,000 total, covering tuition, room, board, books, and mandatory fees ¹ ³ |
| Fields of Study | International relations, public policy, business, economics, management science, organizational development/leadership, and more ¹ ³ |
| Contact | pickeringfellowship@howard.edu, 202-806-6495 ⁴ ¹ |
Facts About The Thomas R. Pickering
- A Legacy of Service: Thomas R. Pickering served as a US diplomat for over 40 years, making him one of the most experienced and respected figures in American foreign policy.
- A Life of Adventure: Born in 1931, Pickering’s career spanned the globe, with posts in Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas – a true global citizen!
- From Battlefield to Boardroom: Pickering’s journey began as a US Army officer in the 1950s, later transitioning to diplomacy, where he navigated the complexities of international relations with finesse.
- Ambassador Extraordinaire: He served as US Ambassador to six countries: Nigeria, Jordan, El Salvador, Israel, the United Nations, and Russia – a testament to his exceptional leadership and diplomatic prowess!
- A Champion of Human Rights: Pickering was a vocal advocate for human rights, particularly in his role as US Representative to the UN, where he worked tirelessly to promote justice and equality.
- A Strategic Thinker: He played a key role in shaping US foreign policy, including the Camp David Accords and the Dayton Peace Accords, demonstrating his ability to broker peace and stability.
- A Man of Integrity: Pickering’s commitment to ethical leadership earned him the respect of world leaders and colleagues alike, solidifying his reputation as a paragon of diplomacy.
- A Passion for Education: Throughout his career, Pickering championed education and cultural exchange programs, fostering greater understanding and cooperation between nations.
- A Lifetime of Achievement: His numerous awards and honors include the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the US – a fitting tribute to his remarkable legacy.
- A Lasting Impact: Thomas R. Pickering’s influence extends far beyond his own accomplishments, inspiring generations of diplomats, leaders, and global citizens to strive for a more peaceful and harmonious world.
Rewards For Thomas R Pickering Graduate Foreign Affairs Fellowship 2025
- Financial Support: Fellows receive a competitive stipend to cover living expenses during the program. This ensures that participants can focus on their academic and professional development without financial concerns.
- Professional Experience: Fellows will gain first-hand experience by working with seasoned diplomats and foreign policy experts, contributing to real-world projects, and learning the intricacies of international relations.
- Mentorship: Each fellow is paired with a senior mentor in the foreign affairs field, providing guidance, career advice, and networking opportunities.
- Travel Opportunities: Fellows may have the chance to travel to international conferences, participate in diplomatic missions, and engage with global institutions.
- Career Advancement: Completing the fellowship enhances a candidate’s profile for future opportunities in international organizations, embassies, government roles, and non-profits.
Eligibility Criteria For Thomas R Pickering Graduate Foreign Affairs Fellowship 2025
To apply for the Graduate Foreign Affairs Program Fellowship 2025, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Educational Background: Candidates must be enrolled in or have completed a graduate degree in international relations, political science, public policy, law, economics, or a related field.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the country offering the fellowship. Check specific country requirements for more details.
- Academic Excellence: A strong academic record is essential. A minimum GPA requirement may apply, typically around 3.0 or equivalent.
- Relevant Experience: Candidates with experience in foreign affairs, international organizations, internships, or research are preferred.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in English is required, and additional language skills relevant to international diplomacy (e.g., French, Arabic, Mandarin) are highly valued.
How To Apply For Thomas R Pickering Graduate Foreign Affairs Fellowship 2025
Interested applicants must follow the steps below to apply:
Prepare the Application Documents:
- Updated CV/Resume highlighting relevant academic and professional experiences.
- A personal statement (500–1000words) explaining your interest in international relations and how the fellowship aligns with your career goals.
- Academic transcripts from your graduate studies.
- Two letters of recommendation from professors or professional mentors.
Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, either in person or via video conference, where they will be assessed on their knowledge of foreign affairs and their suitability for the fellowship.
Selection Process: A panel of experts will review the applications, focusing on academic performance, relevant experience, and passion for foreign policy.
The application deadline for the Graduate Foreign Affairs Program Fellowship 2025 is September 26, 2024.