Amnesty International USA Reebok Human Rights Summer Fellowship 2008

Frequently Asked Questions

What is it?

The Reebok Human Rights Fellowship offers students a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in the field of human rights alongside international human rights leaders. Participating fellows will have the opportunity to develop skills in human rights work with either an organization connected to a Reebok Human Rights Award winner or Amnesty International USA (AIUSA). Fellowships will be awarded to 8-12 outstanding students.

Who is eligible?

18-25 year old students of any nationality attending school in the U.S. and U.S. citizens aged 18-25 studying abroad.

When does the fellowship take place?

Fellowship projects typically last from four to six weeks during the months of June-August 2008.

How much money is available?

AIUSA will cover the cost of air travel, accommodation and, for overseas fellowships, appropriate insurance up to a maximum of $2,500. Fellows will need to fund other costs incurred such as domestic travel, food and telephone calls.

Where will fellows work?

Host organizations are based in the United States and abroad and include organizations which are connected to Reebok Human Rights Award winners and AIUSA. All organizations share AIUSA's human rights goals. Successful applicants will be informed of the organization they will work for and its location by the end of April 2008.

Can I choose where I work?

Applicants have the opportunity to state whether they would participate in a fellowship posting overseas or a domestic fellowship posting.

The fellowship will not fund internships or projects students arrange for themselves.

What about fellows' security?

Doing human rights work can occasionally be challenging, both physically and mentally, and may, in some circumstances, require fellows to perform their duties in difficult situations. Applicants must not only be in good health, but must also be able to work in such circumstances and be willing to accept the risks associated with them.

Fellows will not be posted to areas of countries where there are ongoing conflicts and fellows posted internationally will be helped with identifying suitable accommodation. AIUSA will assist all fellows with preparing for their fellowship so that they have a safe and rewarding experience.

Can I choose which human rights issue I work on?

Applicants can express a preference for the particular issue they would like to work on from the choices given on the application form. However, it is not guaranteed that successful applicants will be invited to work on their first choice human rights issue.

The fellowship will not fund internships or projects students arrange for themselves.

What will fellows do during their fellowship?

The projects fellows work on vary but all share a focus on promoting human rights. A typical project will include research and opportunities to develop activist skills. All of the host organizations have goals which are in line with AIUSA?s campaigns. Find out more about AIUSA's campaigns to denounce torture, abolish the death penalty, stop violence against women, stop the violence in Darfur, release prisoners of conscience and secure economic, social and cultural rights for all.

Will there only be one fellow working for the host organization?

In some instances more than one fellow will be posted to a host organization.

How are applications judged?

A panel of human rights experts will consider a variety of factors when reviewing applications, including:

Relevant skills, knowledge and experience that applicants can offer to host organizations promoting human rights.
Examples are the ability to work and effectively communicate in diverse settings, problem solving skills and the ability to cope with challenges and use initiative.
It is recommended that applicants provide examples from their experience which demonstrate these competencies.
A demonstrated commitment to human rights activism and upholding human rights.
An imaginative and effective post fellowship human rights education project outline (see more below).
Skills outlined in applicant's resume including academic performance.
References.

What is the post fellowship human rights education project?

Reebok fellows will be required to share their fellowship experience through human rights education work during the semester following the fellowship. Applicants are asked to provide an outline of a creative human rights education project which they would like to organize at their schools, in their communities or online and explain why they believe it would persuade young people to respect, promote and defend human rights. Examples include speaking engagements, activities for students in school (e.g. middle and high school), publications and online activities. Find out more about AIUSA's human rights education work at www.aiusa.org/education

Who should write my reference letter and what information do they need to provide?

Your reference letter should be written and signed by a teacher, professor or work supervisor (including the supervisor of relevant voluntary work). They should provide a recommendation detailing why you are a strong candidate for the fellowship.

Can I apply if I am graduating this year?

Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria listed above.

Can I apply if I am starting school in the fall?

Yes, if you are 18 - 25.

Can I apply if I turn 26 this year?

Yes, if you are 25 on the application closing date (March 4).

When is the deadline for applications?

The application deadline is March 4, 2008 and successful applicants are notified by the end of April 2008.

How can I apply?

Students may download the application available at: www.aiusa.org/reebok

To ask questions or request a hardcopy of the application email reebok@aiusa.org

Or contact

Telephone: 202/544-0200 x 526

In your request please include your name, address, phone number and e-mail address.