Just as in a student’s college journey, faculty and staff can play an instrumental role in a student’s path through the fellowship application process. Below are three ways you can contribute to Haverford students’ success in navigating the world of fellowships.

Identify Prospective Candidates

Do you know a student who demonstrates strong scholarly promise, deep intellectual curiosity, or great leadership potential? Encourage them to consider fellowships as part of their future academic and career plans! Refer the students to Jason Chan, Fellowship and Career Advisor in the CCPA, or email Jason (jchan2@haverford.edu) the students’ names and he would be glad to reach out to the students directly.

Write a Letter of Recommendation

A letter of recommendation is an opportunity for you to advocate for our students and champion their candidacy for a fellowship. If a student requests a letter from you, make sure you are confident discussing-with concrete examples-how the student has excelled in their academic or co-curricular interests and the qualities of theirs that distinguish them from their peers. If you do not feel confident in your ability to write such a letter, advise the student to select another recommender. A generic letter, no matter how kind, will not make a student competitive in the fellowship selection process.

Serve as a Committee Member

Many fellowship programs limit the number of students who can apply from each institution. As such, we hold internal selection processes to determine Haverford’s nominees for national competitions. This is where your knowledge and expertise can be of great value, whether it’s by reviewing applications, interviewing applicants, or coaching students in strengthening their written materials. Contact Jason Chan (jchan2@haverford.edu) if you’re interested in any of these opportunities!

Have ideas for other ways you can support students as they apply for fellowship opportunities? Contact Jason Chan (jchan2@haverford.edu) or a CCPA staff member-we welcome your input and involvement!