Federman Fellowship Program

How to Apply

Applications for the 2025–26 academic year will be available from this page in spring 2025.

Specialized Fellowships

The program empowers students by offering leadership opportunities, mentorship roles, and professional development experiences. Each year, the fellowship selects four undergraduate students with junior or senior standing and one graduate student, all of whom must maintain a 3.00 grade point average or higher. Importantly, the program is open to students regardless of immigration status, ensuring inclusivity for those often underserved.

Fellows receive a $10,000 award while working in specialized roles that directly impact student success. These roles are tailored to enhance their academic experience and provide practical career-building opportunities, including:

• Community Outreach/Recruitment Fellow: Develops connections with local organizations and high schools to support prospective students.
• Graduate Research and Data Reporting Fellow: Conducts program assessments and explores funding opportunities, building critical research skills.
• Social Media/Communications Fellow: Manages ISSO’s digital presence, creating content that engages the campus and broader community.
• Peer Advocate and Wellness Fellow: Provides mentorship, advocacy, and emotional support to first- and second-year students.
• Programming and Community-Building Fellow: Designs events and initiatives that strengthen community bonds and promote wellness.

A Community of Support

At its core, the Federman Fellowship Program is about creating a network of support for students to thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Fellows are empowered to serve as mentors and advocates for their peers, building a culture of belonging and encouragement.

Through their work, fellows help first- and second-year immigrant and first-generation students navigate college life, access resources, and gain confidence in their ability to succeed. At the same time, fellows themselves gain valuable leadership, communication, and project management skills—tools that will serve them long after graduation.

Opening Doors to Opportunity

The Federman Fellowship opens doors for students by providing:

• Practical Work Experience: Fellows take on meaningful roles that prepare them for their future careers.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead initiatives and mentor peers build confidence and professional skills.
• A Platform for Advocacy: Fellows actively contribute to creating an inclusive and equitable campus environment.
• Financial Support: The $10,000 award helps alleviate financial barriers, enabling students to focus on their education and goals.

A Legacy of Impact

The fellowship is more than an academic opportunity; it’s a catalyst for change. By empowering fellows to lead, advocate, and connect, the program builds a foundation for a more inclusive and supportive community. For many students, this fellowship provides a pathway to graduation and future success that might otherwise be out of reach.

The Federman Fellowship Program exemplifies the power of education, community, and opportunity to transform lives. With each fellow, Brooklyn College moves closer to a vision of a campus where all students have the resources and support to achieve their dreams.

The Federman Fellowship Program application at the Immigrant Student Success Office (ISSO) supports four dedicated Brooklyn College undergraduate students with junior or senior class standing (60–90 credits completed) and one graduate student (with at least two semesters left to complete the graduate program), each with a 3.00 GPA or higher, regardless of their immigration status. The program provides the opportunity to significantly impact the lives of first- and second-year immigrant and first-generation students. Through mentorship, guidance, and support, Federman Fellows play a vital role in fostering an inclusive environment while gaining valuable experience and career skills.

The fellowship runs from August 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025. As a Federman Fellow, you will collaborate with ISSO to develop educational projects in one of five specialized areas:

• Social Media/Communications Fellow
• Community Outreach/Recruitment Fellow
• Graduate Research and Data Reporting Fellow
• Peer Advocate and Wellness Fellow
• Programming and Community Building Fellow

Each position aims to enhance the well-being and success of our students, while also offering you invaluable professional experience and skill development.

To apply for the Federman Fellowship, you must be currently enrolled and submit the following materials by July 12, 2024, at 5 p.m.:

1. A completed application form.
2. A copy of your most recent transcript and résumé, emphasizing any relevant experiences or skills that make you a suitable candidate for the fellowship.
3. A 200-word essay addressing the following question: What challenges do immigrant students face in college, and how can you support them? Your essay should demonstrate your ability to think critically and creatively about the issues confronting immigrant students in college as well as showcase your dedication to supporting and advocating for these students.

Finalists will be invited for an interview with the selection committee on July 16. Selected candidates will be announced on July 18.

Thank you for your interest in joining us in our mission to promote the academic, career, and personal growth of all students. Complete the application process to take the first step toward becoming a Federman Fellow and making a lasting difference in the lives of our immigrant and first-generation students.

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