Are you a passionate journalist interested in delving into critical security and economic issues in the Asia-Pacific region? The Jefferson Fellowships 2024 program offers a fully funded opportunity for experienced journalists to deepen their understanding of the complex dynamics shaping East Asia. Ideal for journalists from the US or eligible Asia-Pacific countries, this fellowship provides comprehensive exposure to the region’s security and economic landscapes through a series of meetings, cultural activities, and networking opportunities.
Degree Level:
Fellowship level programs at USA Universities
Available Subject:
Journalism
Benefits:
The Jefferson Fellowships program is generously funded by a consortium of organizations including the Freeman Foundation, the Mary Morgan Hewett Fund, and the East-West Center. Both fellows and their respective news organizations may also contribute to the program costs.
Scholarship Awards:
Scholarships cover a portion or all of program expenses. Each year, 10-14 scholarships are awarded, focusing on journalists from the Asia-Pacific region (8-10) and a dedicated allocation for qualified American journalists (2-4).
Full Scholarship Coverage includes:
- Round-trip airfare (between home country and study tour locations)
- Accommodation in all program cities
- Meals during program activities (including a per diem for additional meals)
- Ground transportation and airport transfers
- Cultural activities and networking opportunities
- Interpretation services as needed
- Speaker fees, partner organization costs, and meeting room rentals
- Customized program itinerary providing unique access to speakers and local communities
- Experienced program guide
Eligible Nationalities:
This scholarship is open to students from Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, East Timor, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kiribati, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, New Zealand, Niue, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Tonga, Tuvalu, United States, Vanuatu, or Vietnam.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Journalists working for print publications, broadcast news organizations, or online news platforms in the United States or an eligible Asia Pacific country/territory are encouraged to apply.
- Applicants must have a minimum of 5 years of professional journalism experience.
- Proficiency in English for effective communication in a professional setting is required.
Selection Preference:
- Applications demonstrating a clear relevance of the program theme to the applicant’s area of coverage will receive stronger consideration.
- Articulating how the acquired knowledge will enrich audience understanding through innovative reporting methods, content creation, or in-depth analysis is highly valued.
Active Participation:
- All participants are encouraged to actively contribute to the program by producing content during and after their involvement. This content may include traditional news articles, blog entries, or social media posts sharing insights and knowledge gained with the wider audience.
Application Procedure:
Required Documents:
- Online Application Form: Complete the online application form for the 2024 Jefferson Fellowships program.
- Letter of Interest (3 pages max): In your letter, please include:
- Brief information about your news organization or freelance work, detailing your role and professional experience.
- What you hope to achieve and which specific issues you plan to explore during the program. Include some story ideas relevant to these issues.
- How the program theme aligns with your audience and the areas you typically cover.
- How participating in the program will contribute to your growth as a journalist.
- Propose a topic for the paper and presentation you intend to share as part of the fellowship.
- Resume/CV (2 pages max): Submit your current resume or curriculum vitae detailing your professional background.
- Employer Statement of Support (if applicable): If you are employed and not a freelancer, have your supervisor complete this form to confirm your organization’s endorsement of your participation in the fellowship.
- Two Letters of Recommendation: Provide contact details for two professional references who can write letters of recommendation on your behalf.
This comprehensive application package ensures that your candidacy for the Jefferson Fellowships program is thoroughly evaluated. Please ensure all documents are submitted by the specified deadline for consideration.
Deadline:
The deadline for the 2024 Jefferson Fellowships program is Friday, June 14, 2024, 3:00 PM (Pacific Time).
