Fellowship Application Suggestions
The Fulbright competitions and others are past, and many students are preparing for those competitions which have later deadlines. Based on previous competitions, here are some further suggestions on the application process.
Timing
Since the proposal and recommendations and transcripts are due at the same time, it is important not only to start writing the proposal early, but also to work on the other items simultaneously.
Letters of Recommendation
The most serious issue is what to do about recommenders who agree to write a letter but miss the deadline. Students should give as much advance notification as possible, with sufficiently clear instructions as to deadline and destination (an addressed, stamped envelope is a great help), and a good description of the project - which is why it is so important to begin the proposal early.
Strengthening the Proposal
Working on a number of drafts and seeking advice does result in a more polished proposal. In addition to facuty advisors, you may make an appointment with Cynthia Verba for a detailed review of the proposal; call 495-1814 for an appointment. See also samples of winning proposals in Scholarly Pursuits, available at the GSAS fellowships office web site.
Fellowship Highlights — Reminder to First-Year Graduate Students
There are a number of fellowships for students who are at or near the beginning of graduate study. Applications typically are available at the fellowship web site.
The National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowships, for students in the natural sciences, the social sciences, and the history and philosophy of science.
The Fannie and John Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship Program, for students in the physical sciences.
The Ford Foundation Doctoral Fellowships for Minorities
Each of the above has an early deadline, in October or November. See The Graduate Guide to Grants for a more complete listing of graduate fellowships and further details on the above; it is available at the GSAS Fellowships Office web site.) At this same site is a list of major Harvard fellowships for GSAS students.
Even if you have applied for any of the above fellowships in the past and have failed to win one, you have a chance of winning on the second try--several students have done so. For assistance with your application, telephone for an appointment with Cynthia Verba, 495-1814.