ASAM Fellows Program 2021-2022 is open for submissions until Friday, April 2nd, 2021!
The Asian American Studies (ASAM) Program offers a fellowship for up to 5 undergraduate Penn students from a variety of disciplines. The ASAM Fellows Program will provide the chance to enhance critical thinking skills, learn about new areas of research, and strengthen their knowledge of Asian American Studies. This is an excellent opportunity to build your resume while exploring your interests and learning valuable skills for your future career.
During Summer fellows have the option to (1) complete an independent research project or (2) intern at an Asian American-based organization. The project can be for a course requirement, an independent project, or a senior thesis. Upon return in the fall, fellows will present their work at the Fall ASAM Research Symposium. Throughout the fall semester, fellows will be given a budget to design and curate a speaker series of ASAM scholars that will take place in the Spring semester. In addition, each ASAM Fellow will become a part of the ASAM community, attend special fellows’ events during the Fall and Spring semesters, and have lunch with ASAM faculty to learn about their research experience. Throughout the year, ASAM sponsors conferences and hosts a variety of events, including film screenings, academic talks, and performances.
As part of this fellowship, participants will receive the following:
- A $1,500 to support research initiatives that will be awarded in 3 installments (Summer, Fall, and Spring)
- Opportunity to present at the Fall 2021 ASAM Research Symposium
- Experience with designing, curating, and executing a speaker series
- Mentorship and guidance from ASAM faculty at Penn
- Personal connections with ASAM scholars and the support of an academic community
- Tools for success that students can use increase and outside of the classroom (i.e. writing, research, public speaking, and event planning)
Requirements
Candidates for this fellowship are rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors at Penn who are highly-motivated, well-organized, detail-oriented, and able to work in small group settings. You do not have to be an ASAM minor to apply, but preference will be given to students who have taken at least one ASAM class.
Applications are due Friday, April 2nd, 2021, and must provide:
- Research proposal OR detailed statement of plans (if the candidate is pursuing an organization-affiliated internship) of approximately 500 words.
- Letter of support, preferably from your research advisor or internship supervisor (does not have to be a Penn affiliate)
- Proposed budget (approximate)
- Personal Statement discussing how Fellowship and future Speaker Series will enhance your educational goals of approximately 500 words.
Interviews will take place in early April.
Awards will be announced by mid-April.
By May 1st, fellows are expected to submit finalized project plans for the summer.
For more information and to apply please contact Dr. Fariha Khan at fariha@sas.upenn.edu