How to Apply

The John D. Solomon Fellowship for Public Service provides an opportunity for 10 graduate students in the New York City area to complete a nine-month paid fellowship at a New York City government agency or nonprofit organization. Each fellow will receive a $10,000 stipend, will be placed within the emergency management unit at their assigned agency, and will participate in special programs with other fellows. (Fellows commit roughly 15 to 20 hours per week to their assigned agency/organization.) 

Fellows will have the opportunity to work on projects that focus on emergency preparedness and resilience, and involve collaboration with New York City government agencies, community-based organizations, and other key partners. They will also be given access to, and encouraged to complete, the New York City Emergency Management certificate program. Through their work, fellows will gain invaluable, first-hand experience working with City agencies and nonprofit organizations in the critical and growing field of emergency management.

Eligibility

• A commitment to New York City and to public service.
• A strong interest in emergency management and community resiliency.
• Superior academic achievement and relevant prior work experience.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently, and in highly collaborative environments.
• A proactive, "can-do" attitude and strong desire to learn.
• Proficiency using major social media platforms, conducting internet research, and using Microsoft Office.
• First-hand knowledge of New York City's neighborhoods and community-based organizations preferred, but not required.

Applicants must be in a graduate or PhD program from September to May during the application year (e.g., September 2022 to May 2023) to be eligible for the fellowship. Degree programs in public administration, public health, emergency management, public safety, and public policy are preferred, but all qualifying graduate students will be considered.

This is an in-person fellowship. While there are no residency requirements, applicants must be able to commute to New York City at least two to three days per week for the duration of the fellowship.

To Apply

The 2023-2024 application is now closed. The 2024-2025 cohort application will open in February 2024.

Important Dates

• February 9: Application opens
• March 26: Deadline to apply
• April 4: Webinar about the Fellowship for participating agencies and Fellowship finalists
• Week of April 17 - 26: Virtual interviews for Fellowship finalists
• Early May: Fellows are notified about their entry into the program