Barnard Global Symposium Student Fellows

In conjunction with its successful Global Symposia series, Barnard offers students the opportunity to become Global Symposium Fellows. Fellows commit to working with Barnard's administrative and faculty team on the upcoming Symposium, held in March. For more information about the 2013 Symposium in Sao Paulo, Brazil, please read the FAQ below. You can also watch the videos below to hear from the 2011 and 2012 Fellows about their experience in Johannesburg with Women Changing Africa and in Mumbai with Women Changing India.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply?
Sophomores, Juniors, or Seniors may apply. Fellows must be on campus for the the full 2012-2013 academic year.

What are you looking for in an applicant?
The committee will look for experience in public speaking, event planning, and leadership positions, as well as demonstrated interest in the region, leadership development, women’s issues, or other relevant areas.  Students should be in good academic standing with strong time management skills.

What is the time commitment?
Fellows are expected to commit an average of 5-10 hours/week to work related to the Symposium, from November 2012 to April 2013, and will spend the majority of their spring break in Sao Paulo.

What responsibilities do Fellows have before and after the Symposium?

• Attend bi-weekly meetings November 2012-April 2013 in preparation for the event
• Develop pre-conference workshop for high school aged girls, in collaboration with Barnard faculty and staff
• Bring the events back to campus to share with fellow students, including an on-campus event in April
• Share your experiences with students interested in becoming Fellows for future Symposia

What responsibilities do Fellows have in Sao Paulo?

• Arrive in Sao Paulo no later than Friday, March 15th, 2013
• Attend and staff the VIP reception on Sunday, March 17th and the symposium on Monday, March 18th
• Lead workshops for high school aged girls after the Symposium on Wednesday, March 20th
• Work with and support the faculty and administrative team in making all events successful

What does the fellowship include in terms of compensation and/or experiential rewards?
Fellows will receive round-trip airfare NYC-Sao Paulo and four nights in a double room with another Barnard student at a hotel in Sao Paulo, as well as most meals and assistance toward other on-the-ground transportation costs. Personally and professionally, students will develop skills in collaboration, presentation, event-planning, cross-cultural communication, and much more. Students will not recieve any credit or comepnsation for their work.

How do I apply?
Submit the following by October 15 to the Office of International Programs (either by dropping off/mailing to 10 Milbank or by email at globalsymposium@barnard.edu)

• Online application (click here)
• 1-page (maximum) personal statement detailing your interest in attending the symposium, including your relevant qualifications (academic interests/major, personal background, commitment to women’s leadership and/or internationalization, etc.)
• Curriculum Vitae including relevant coursework and any Athena Leadership labs taken
• Letter of recommendation from a faculty member - you will enter your recommender's information in the online application, and we will send them a request via email to fill out a confidential online form.

Do I have to have a letter of recommendation from a faculty member? My TA/supervisor/Dean knows me so much better!
Yes, you must have a faculty recommendation, but you may request one additional recommendation letter if you wish. However, this letter may NOT come from a class dean. Again, enter all recommender information in the application form so that we may send them an email requesting them to submit an online recommendation.

How will I know that you’ve received my complete application?
You will receive an email when all of your application materials have been received.

When will I find out if I’ve been selected?
Applicants may be selected for interviews. All students will be notified of final decisions by November 7.

I have more questions; what should I do?
Attend an information session:

• Wed Sept 26th, 12:15-1pm, MIL 307
• Thurs Sept 27th, 12:15-1pm, MIL 307
• Fri Sept 28th, 12:15-1pm, MIL 324

You can also email globalsymposium@barnard.edu with specific questions.