We are looking for applicants with demonstrated dedication to environmental improvement, outstanding leadership skills or potential, and vision for how they will apply their skills to create positive change. They should possess solid communication skills, commitment to leadership development, and strong academic credentials. Non-academic work and community-based experience is highly valued.
We seek candidates from a variety of approaches to environmental change, life experiences and perspectives as well as representation across schools, academic programs and fields of study. This includes applicants coming from non-environmental fields with transferable skills that make their shift to environmental work compelling.
Black, Indigenous and students of color, first-generation college students, and individuals from groups traditionally underrepresented in environmental graduate programs are strongly encouraged to apply. We encourage applications from a wide variety of universities, including state universities, in New England and California.
Individuals who have work experience between undergraduate and graduate study are often more competitive candidates due to a greater understanding of how positive change is made within complex systems. In addition, we recognize that an individual who has had to overcome financial obstacles by choosing non-environmental work can be just as committed as someone who has had the privilege of volunteering at environmental organizations to gain experience.
Please see the profiles of our current or past fellows for an idea of the diversity of expertise and backgrounds of Switzer Fellows. Refer to the evaluation rubric for more detail about specific qualities we are seeking.