A Princeton in Latin America fellowship experience is often described as a transformational experience, both for personal and professional development and growth. It is often also the start of a career in development or social responsibility in Latin America. It is an opportunity to join a growing community of alumni, passionate agents for good in an array of sectors.
The fellowship experience varies greatly depending on placement and organization. Some Fellows work closely with a supervisor or colleague(s); others work more independently. Some Fellows work in offices that are filled with local staff; others work with a high number of expatriates. Some Fellows live in urban areas like Mexico City or Lima; and others are based in semi-urban and rural areas with limited resources.
No matter the host organization or the location, all fellowships are 12 months long and all Fellows experience support from Princeton in Latin America staff, alumni, and other Fellows. You will be matched with buddies and mentors during the fellowship and beyond.
Successful applicants have excellent writing & analytical skills, and show empathy, professionalism and drive. During their fellowship they continue to develop their resilience, vision and agency. Professional Spanish (or alternatively Portuguese or French) is essential. Some of our partner organizations ask for highly specific skillsets and types of placements so there is no gneral formula or rule. However, a sustained record of academic achievement and service, empathy, resillience, commitment and humility are strong indicators of success. Other very important qualities are the so called "soft" communication and interpersonal skills that include being a good team member, the flexibility to adapt successfully to shifting circumstances during the fellowship, a sense of humor and the capacity to quickly form and be included in a community.
PiLA Fellows come from many fields of study such as STEM, social sciences and humanities, arts, pre-med, law, public policy, education, international relations, communications, and more. PiLA Fellows are from diverse backgrounds including many of Latin American heritage as well as first-generation college students.
All fellowships are one year in length. Placements are finalized by March and start dates range from June to August.
Application for Princeton in Latin America fellowships is open to graduates of accredited U.S. and Canadian universities. International students who have graduated within the last 3 years from a college or university accredited in the U.S., or part of our international consortium of partner universities may apply. Please note that, in certain cases, visa eligibility for destination countries may be a determining factor in placement.
Eligibility
- Open to young professionals and graduating seniors
- Graduate of U.S. or Canadian accredited University or from our International Consortium of Partner Universities
Application Requirements
- Resume
- Unofficial transcript(s)
- Official transcript(s)
- Professional or academic letter of recommendation
- Language letter of recommendation
- $100 Application Fee
- Complete Online Application
Incomplete Applications will not be accepted
For additional information and application instructions, see PiLA Applicants.