Five Colleges, Incorporated: Fellowship Program

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Fellowship Program for Minority Scholars
Frequently Asked Questions

Is January 2, 2012 a hard deadline for application submission for the Fellowship, or is there a rolling deadline?

January 2, 2012 is the date we expect to begin review. It is not a deadline. We will accept applications right up until the new Fellows are named. To be sure your application has the best chance of review, you should submit as close as possible to January 2.

How many Fellowships are awarded each year?

Normally, four fellowships are awarded each year, one based at each of the four liberal arts colleges in the Consortium -- Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke and Smith.

Who is eligible to apply for the Five College Fellowship Program?

The program supports scholars from under-represented groups and/or scholars with unique interests and histories whose engagement in the Academy will enrich scholarship and teaching.

How close to completing my dissertation should I be before applying?

In general, successful candidates are expected to complete their dissertations during the Fellowship year.

Are non-U.S. citizens eligible to apply?

Yes, as long as they are doctoral students completing dissertations.

Are candidates working in certain fields not eligible for fellowships?

The committee welcomes applications from candidates in all fields. However, applications are strongest when candidates suggest connections between their work and fields commonly taught at Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke and Smith colleges.

Should I specify which of the schools where I would like to be a Fellow?

Application is to the Program, not to a specific hosting campus. Applications are reviewed by a committee composed of faculty members from each of the liberal arts colleges in the consortium (Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke and Smith). This committee selects Fellows, matching them to hosting institutions and departments based on several factors, including the fields and special interests of the candidate, the availability of mentors on the campuses, campus needs, and prospects for position openings in particular fields at particular campuses. In any case, the Five College office works to connect Fellows with resources and faculty colleagues in their field from across the five campuses, regardless of the campus hosting them.

How much can I write in the answer sections?

The space in the answer areas is almost limitless. You can enter as much information as you want. Remember, though, your readers will appreciate concision.

Should my referees send their letters to someone, or will they be contacted? If so, when will you contact them?

All we need are the names and contact information for your referees, which you will upload to the online application. Once you submit your completed application, your referees will be contacted automatically.

Will I be able to access the application interface using my browser?

Google Chrome is not compatible with the current application interface, but Firefox, Internet Explorer, and Safari work fine. (You should, however, be sure you are using the most current version.)

Posted 9/26/11; modified 12/27/11

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