The GU Impact Fellowship FAQ
Our GU Impact fellows work on meaningful projects implemented on the ground. Students return to campus with new mentors, new ideas, and new passions. We work intentionally with each of our alumni to help them continue their social impact journey-whether that be through their classes, careers, or personal lives.
PARTNERS | LOGISTICS | TESTIMONIALS | FAQ
FAQ
Who Can Apply?
Georgetown undergraduates – specifically rising sophomores, juniors and seniors were welcome to apply. Unfortunately, the program was not open to graduating seniors. Graduate-level students had the opportunity to participate in GU Impacts with our partner El Nido Resorts.
How selective was the GU Impacts Fellowships?
Approximately 25% of applicants were selected for a fellowship position. Students were encouraged to apply for the next year if they did not get selected their first time applying.
Can students studying abroad still apply?
Yes! Virtual accommodations were provided for those hoping to study abroad.
If students applied once and were not selected, could they reapply in the future?
GU Impacts was a highly competitive program and we encouraged students to consider applying the following year. Moreover, students were welcome to seek direct feedback on their application after selections were made by reaching out to the Program Manager.
Do you need a reference letter?
The application asked for 1-2 academic references who were contacted during the application and interview process.
Transcript – Official or Unofficial?
An unofficial transcripted printed from myaccess was accepted as part of the application.
When do the GU Impacts Fellowships take place?
The GU Impacts Fellowship began from the moment of selection (late February/early March) and lasted through the fellow’s return to campus in the fall (September). The fellowship-project, which refered to the 10-week period during which GU Impacts fellows worked directly with their impact partner client, takes place during the summer.
What preparation do fellows receive before the internship?
GU Impacts fellows received comprehensive orientation and training before their departure, which included working closely with Beeck Center staff, alumni mentors, academic faculty advisors, and the impact partner supervisors of each client. We provided cultural orientation, logistics planning, work planning, team building and workshops to equip our fellows for success.
Will I get credit for participating in the program?
No – students did not receive course credit for participating in the GU Impacts program. However, there were opportunities for single credit summer reflection classes through the Center for Social Justice. Students enrolled in the CSJ Intersections course for 1 credit found the program to be incredibly rewarding and aligned with their fellowship experience. Financial aid is available for the credit option.
While students did not receive credit on their transcript for participating in the GU Impacts program, this experience was invaluable, with hands-on experiential learning that will inform important academic and professional decisions in the future. Moreover, this experience helped students develop a network and provide them with the professional experience coveted by real-world employers.
What is expected of GU Impacts fellows upon their return to campus next fall?
GU Impacts fellows were expected to participate in formal and informal reflection activities, which present opportunities for fellows to learn about one another’s work and better understand how to leverage their learnings and continue their social impact journey.
GU Impacts fellows were expected to complete a capstone project, in the form of a blog or video testimonial, or present a summary of their fellowship in an exposition format.
What will my work schedule look like?
Typically work schedules were Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. Some impact partners required hours that went longer while others required work on Saturdays.
How do I communicate with my partners?
Each partner organization had its own approaches and platforms when it comes to communication. Fellows should never hesitate to reach out to their supervisors or ask to meet more frequently.
What kind of projects do we work on?
Fellows’ tasks and projects ranged depending on the partner and the fellow’s specified interests. Past projects included grant writing, program evaluations, website design, blog writing, designing fundraising initiatives, and more.