For the Fall 2008 Kennedy Fellows Application click here.

Eligibility
Employment: Candidates must have a minimum of one year of continuous satisfactory employment as a frontline worker with an agency that provides health, education or human services to New York residents. Common job titles of Kennedy Fellows include direct care worker, childcare worker, assistant teacher, home care worker, group residence worker, mental health aide, youth counselor, job coach, and nurse's aide.

College Enrollment: Candidates must be enrolled at The City University of New York (CUNY) or The State University of New York (SUNY) and take at least six credits of coursework each semester. They must be matriculated in a job-related associate's, bachelor's or master's degree program.

Selection
Preference is given to students employed in direct care positions who demonstrate a career commitment to work in health, education or human services fields. All finalists are interviewed in person or by phone.

Stipends
Kennedy Fellows receive $1000 each semester for up to two semesters for tuition, books, transportation, childcare, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Mentoring
In collaboration with the program's director, Kennedy Fellows choose a mentor, usually a college faculty member or agency professional who serves as a career sponsor and academic advisor. Through the ongoing one-to-one mentoring relationship and supportive peer relationships with other Kennedy Fellows, dedicated workers receive encouragement and guidance to help them reach their academic and professional goals. For more information about the mentoring program see the Kennedy Fellows Mentor Guide.

Support Services and Professional Development
Free individual tutoring and career counseling are available to all Kennedy Fellows. They are also invited to attend conferences and participate in a variety of professional development and networking activities.