The Kellogg Institute is excited to announce the launch of its new Global Democracy Fellowships, an experiential learning program designed to deepen undergraduate students’ understanding of democracy throughout the world. As part of Kellogg’s Experiencing the World Fellowship program, this initiative reflects the Institute’s commitment to fostering knowledge and hands-on experience in the study of democracy, encouraging students who are passionate about global democratic issues to apply.
“The Global Democracy Fellowships reflect the core goal of our undergraduate programs – to prepare students to engage thoughtfully and ethically with the world,” said Holly Rivers, associate director of the Institute. “Through these hands-on experiences, students will not only learn about democracy in different contexts, but also see how leadership and civic engagement take shape in real-world settings.”
In the summer of 2026, the program will select 2-3 Notre Dame students for each of two international sites: Córdoba, Argentina, and Accra, Ghana. Students apply to work in a specific country and must explain in their applications how their academic interests align with the areas of focus at each location, as well as how the fellowship experience will enhance their understanding of global democracy. Matching students with organizations that best suit their interests, the program offers opportunities to engage in critical areas such as human rights, journalism, women’s empowerment, and legal studies.
The fellowship lasts eight weeks, from approximately May 31 to July 25, 2026, after on-campus orientation sessions before departure. Then, a two-week onsite orientation, coinciding with in-country work, is designed to help students acclimate to the country and build a supportive cohort experience. Activities include welcome events, guided reflections to process cultural differences and learning goals, team-building exercises, cultural engagements such as language lessons and cooking workshops, and weekend excursions that offer deeper immersion in the local context. After orientation, students transition to six weeks of full-time project work that is more independent, where they apply their skills and leadership to support their host organizations.
Kellogg is partnering with Projects Abroad, a leading global organization with more than 30 years of experience providing international volunteering and internship opportunities aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Fellows will receive comprehensive funding that covers airfare, vaccinations, lodging, meals, and program activities, with additional support for incidental expenses to ensure a fully supported experience abroad.
Applications are due Monday, March 2, 2025. Detailed program and application information is available on the Kellogg Institute website, inviting motivated students to take part in this unique opportunity to experience and contribute to democracy in diverse international contexts.