Eastern Florida Students Eligible for Governor's Fellowship Program

Students in Eastern Florida State College’s new Bachelor Degree programs are eligible to apply for the 2014-15 Gubernatorial Fellows Program.

The fellowships provide Florida students with firsthand, high-level experience and insight into how state government operates. Established in 2004, and endowed by the Hoffman Foundation in 2005, the program gives Florida college and university students the unique opportunity to work alongside state government’s top staff for two semesters.

Said Gov. Rick Scott:
“The Gubernatorial Fellows Program provides an invaluable opportunity for Florida’s college and university students to receive advanced, on-the-job training. I am committed to creating an opportunity economy in Florida that prepares every student for success in college and career. I encourage students interested in public service and leadership to apply to be a part of this program and learn the skills needed to be ready for the workforce.”

Gubernatorial Fellows are assigned to the Executive Office of the Governor and the Governor’s agencies, based on their major or area of concentration. Fellows work a minimum of 20 hours per week and are paid for their time on the job.

Those selected for the program will also receive tuition waivers from their college or university to cover the cost of their tuition as they continue their studies throughout the program year.

Fellows participate in a weekly lecture series, where they meet face-to-face with prominent leaders, including Governor Scott, Lieutenant Governor Lopez-Cantera, Cabinet officers, agency heads and other top government officials.

Fellows also participate in policy study trips throughout Florida and in Washington, D.C. These trips are designed to broaden the participant's exposure to state government and enhance the experience of all participants.

Eligible candidates should be enrolled at a Florida college or university as a rising junior, senior or graduate student.

Those ranks include students in Eastern Florida’s two Bachelor Degree tracks in General Business Administration and Health Care Administration who have earned their Associate Degrees.

Applicants should exhibit strong leadership, written and oral communication skills, community activism and a desire to serve the people of Florida.

Approximately 12 students from around the state will be selected based on a competitive application process.

Students can visit www.FloridaFellows.com to learn about the expectations and requirements of the program, as well as read testimonials from alumni. Interested students must apply online, and the site includes complete information about the recruitment process.

Applications are due by Monday, March 10. The Fellowship will follow the university calendar starting in August 2014 and end in May 2015. The Governor’s screening and selection committee will announce the program participants in May 2014.

For more information on the Gubernatorial Fellows Program, visit www.FloridaFellows.com.