Communications Scholars and Journalists APSA-MCI Scholarship

The purpose of this fellowship is to give early- to mid-career scholars and journalists an opportunity to learn more about Congress and the legislative process through direct participation. Ideal candidates should have an analytical interest in politics, communications, and public policy, and show promise of making a significant contribution to the public's understanding of the political process.

A comprehensive orientation begins in November of each year. Office assignments as full-time legislative aides in the House of Representatives and/or Senate run from December  to August. Fellows receive a stipend of $38,000, plus a small travel allowance.

QUALIFICATIONS
All candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent U.S. residents and demonstrate an interest in communications and the policymaking process. Additionally: 

Scholars must have a Ph.D completed within the last 15 years or will have defended their dissertation by November of the fellowship year.

Print journalists must have a bachelor's degree and two to ten years of continuous, full-time professional experience in newspaper or magazine at the time of application. Background may be in reporting or editing.

Broadcast journalists must have a bachelor's degree and two to ten years of continuous, full-time professional experience in radio or television at the time of application. Background may be in reporting, producing, directing or writing.

Preference is given to candidates without extensive Washington experience.

SELECTION
Fellows are selected in a nationwide competition. Candidates must first submit their applications for a paper review before being invited before an outside selection panel. Interviews take place at the APSA offices in Washington, DC.

APSA reimburses travel to and from interviews and arranges for hotel accommodations. Applicants not currently in the United States must fund their own transportation, should they be selected for an interview. Interviews will be announced in January. All finalists will be notified in February .

APPLICATION
There are no application forms. To apply, please submit seven (7) packets containing the following:

• a detailed resume
  
• a personal statement explaining how the Congressional Fellowship relates to your professional goals (around 500 words)
  
• contact information for three professional references who have written letters of recommendation
  
• scholars: a sample of your best writing (one published or unpublished manuscript)
  
• print journalists: five clips of your best writing (7 copies each)
  
• broadcast journalists: five clips of your best reporting (7 VHS tapes, CD-ROMs, or DVDs with scripts).

All materials must be collated in the order above on three-hole punched paper. Lengthy writing samples (over 5 pages) should be photocopied front-to-back. Applications may be clipped, but no report covers or staples, please.

RECOMMENDATION LETTERS
Applicants are required to submit three (3) letters of recommendation. Letters should be addressed to the CFP Selection Committee and sent to the applicant. Please be sure to include all relevant contact information, including phone number and e-mail address. Letters by e-mail and fax will not be accepted.

DEADLINE
Applications must be postmarked by December 1st and sent to:

Congressional Fellowship Program
American Political Science Association
1527 New Hampshire Ave, NW
Washington, DC 20036