Acing the Fellowship Application Process

Applying for fellowships can feel like a full-time job—especially when you’re juggling coursework, research, and a thesis or dissertation. But landing the right fellowship can open doors to incredible career opportunities, mentorship, and hands-on experience in your field. Whether you’re eyeing a public health agency, a research institute, or a global health nonprofit, these tips will help you navigate the process and put your best foot forward.

• Start Early & Stay Organized – Fellowship applications aren’t something you want to throw together at the last minute. Many require personal statements, writing samples, and multiple recommendation letters—things that take time to craft (and time for your recommenders to write!). Create a spreadsheet with deadlines and required materials so nothing falls through the cracks.

• Tailor Your Application – A one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it. Each fellowship has its own priorities and mission, so tweak your resume, cover letter, and essays to reflect what they’re looking for. Highlight the skills and experiences that make you a perfect fit, whether that’s data analysis, community engagement, or policy work.

• Leverage Your Network – If you know someone who’s been through a fellowship program you’re interested in, reach out! Alumni, faculty, and current fellows can provide inside info on what the selection committee values, what the interview process is like, and how to craft a standout application. A well-placed email or LinkedIn message can go a long way.

• Showcase Impact, Not Just Experience – It’s not just about what you’ve done—it’s about the difference you’ve made. Instead of simply listing job duties, frame your experiences in terms of outcomes. Did your research inform a policy change? Did your data analysis lead to a new intervention? Use concrete examples and, if possible, numbers to show the real-world impact of your work.

• Prepare for Interviews – If you get an interview, congratulations! Now’s the time to practice talking about your research, your skills, and why you’re a great fit. Many fellowships look for strong communicators who can explain their work clearly, so practice with friends, mentors, or even in front of a mirror. Be ready for behavioral questions, like “Tell me about a time you faced a challenge in a research project.”

• Consider Multiple Options – Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. There are fellowships in government (like CDC EIS or ORISE), academia, nonprofits, and even the private sector. Each has its own perks, from hands-on policy experience to deep research opportunities. Applying to a mix of programs increases your chances of landing one that fits your career goals.

• Follow Up & Stay Engaged – After submitting your application or completing an interview, send a quick thank-you email to the people you spoke with. If you don’t get the fellowship, don’t burn bridges—staying in touch with program coordinators or former fellows can lead to other opportunities down the road.

Fellowship applications can be daunting, but with a solid strategy and a little persistence, you can land an opportunity that propels your career forward. Good luck—you’ve got this!