Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply to more than one Haas
Center postgraduate fellowship?
You may apply to all five postgraduate fellowship
programs if you are genuinely interested in each opportunity, and able to
articulate a compelling and distinct reason why each program meets your goals.
The applications must be customized accordingly, i.e. do not submit essentially
identical applications for different opportunities. You may be a finalist for
multiple fellowships but must be prepared to choose one. Postgraduate fellowships cannot be coupled with Haas Center undergraduate fellowships.
Do I have to be a United States citizen
to apply?
Ford fellows must be legally approved
to work in the United States in time for the start of the fellowship year.
Do I have to know what I want to do in
order to apply for the Ford Fellowship?
The deliberative process of identifying
a placement and mentor happens during spring quarter after the awards are granted.
Successful Ford candidates present their strong interest in a particular issue
area and type of grantmaking foundation, but do not apply with a particular organization or mentor predetermined.
Can I use the Gardner or Ford to start
an organization?
The Ford Fellowship is designed to
provide fellows with a unique, mentored experience in an established
grantmaking organization. The program design allows fellows to benefit from exposure to
leadership at the highest levels within a foundation that is a major player
in the fellows’ chosen field. The Ford Fellowship cannot fund or support
start-up organizations or be combined with other awards or employment.
Does it matter who writes my
references?
A successful application presents a
complete and convincing picture of you. The purpose of requiring two references
is to provide the selection committees with multiple perspectives on your
candidacy; therefore, you should choose references whose perspective on you is
complementary, not duplicative. Also, remember that names and titles are not as
important as substance, i.e. if you are deciding between a “big name” who
doesn’t know you well and a lesser-known person who can speak about your unique
qualities, choose the latter.
Why do you recommend meeting with my
references before I apply?
To help ensure that you will have
stellar references, take the time to meet with your recommenders to discuss
your interests in the fellowship and the reasons you are applying. You should
also consider providing your recommenders with a copy of your personal
statement/essays, resume, or other related materials that will help her/him
give you a relevant and compelling reference.
How will I know if I get an interview?
When you submit your online application,
you will receive information about the interview notification process.
Interviews for the Ford Fellowship are held on campus approximately one month
after the submission date.
What is the interview process like?
During the 30-minute interview you will
be asked questions pertaining to your interest in and readiness for the
fellowship program. The Ford Fellowship selection committee is comprised of
faculty, staff, and alumni.
Can I accept multiple fellowships? The Ford Fellowship is a full-time 11-month commitment. Additional fellowships may not be used concurrently. The Ford Fellowship cannot be deferred.
For more information, please contact Megan Swezey Fogarty.
