Tech & Public Policy visiting fellows FAQs
Please see below for a list of frequently asked questions regarding the Tech & Public Policy visiting fellows application process.
1. What is the purpose of the Visiting Fellows program?
The Visiting Fellows program is designed to connect tech policy professionals, experts and practitioners with students and the broader the Georgetown community through discussions, lectures, public events, mentorship and other projects. It is a unique opportunity for professionals and students to learn from each other and explore emerging tech policy issues in a dynamic environment.
2. Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
Applicants must be experienced professionals, experts, or technology and public policy practitioners. This program is not intended for students. Applicants must also have legal authorization to work in the U.S.
3. Is sponsorship available for international applicants who need a visa to participate in the fellowship?
No, the program does not offer visa sponsorship. Applicants must already have legal authorization to work in the U.S.
4. Can out-of-state applicants apply?
Out-of-state applicants are welcome to apply; however, travel expenses to and from Washington, D.C., are not covered. Fellows are required to attend all program obligations in person, except for office hours.
5.Can Hill staff apply for the fellowship?
Yes, Hill staff can apply; however, they are advised to check with their Ethics Counsel regarding the ability to receive compensation for this position. Please obtain preliminary approval before applying.
6. Where will my written piece be published?
Visiting Fellows may be published by Tech Policy Press (pending editorial approval), a highly-regarded platform for tech policy analysis and opinion, via a partnership with the Tech & Public Policy program.
7. What is the application process?
The application process involves:
- Submission of a Google application with basic information, resume and a proposal outlining your tech policy field, its relevance and program engagements.
- Applications are reviewed by the program director and other TPP team members.
- Due to the high volume of submissions, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
- Interviews will take place from December 2-4, and if selected, you will receive instructions on how to schedule your interview.
- Final decisions will be announced on December 6, with a response required by December 9.
8. When does the application cycle open?
- Fall Fellowship: The application process begins in April-May and fellows are selected by July.
- Spring Fellowship: The application process begins in October-November and fellows are selected by December.
9. What is the selection criteria for fellows?
Selection is based on:
- Significance and resonance of the fellow’s tech policy focus.
- Strength and appeal of plans to engage and contribute to the Georgetown community.
- Contribution to the inclusivity, vibrancy and innovative ethos of the TPP community.
10. How are applicants notified of their selection?
Fellows will receive notification by email. Candidates will be given a deadline by which to accept the offer.
11. What should I include in my proposal?
The proposal should be a maximum of 1,000 words (approx. two pages), single-spaced, and should outline:
- Your relevant tech policy experience and expertise (approximately 300 words).
- How you plan to engage with Georgetown students and faculty based on the semester’s engagements (approximately 400 words).
- How you will contribute to TPP’s inclusivity and innovation (approximately 300 words).
12. Where can I find a list of McCourt classes?
You can visit the faculty and researcher page here. To view current faculty members, select both the full-time faculty and adjunct teaching faculty categories. For each individual, click on their profile and check the “Teaching” tab on the left-hand side to see if they are offering a course. Alternatively, you can explore a comprehensive list of past and current Public Policy courses here.
If you are selected as a fellow, we will assist you in refining your choices. In the meantime, please let us know which courses or faculty resonate with you in your application.
13. What tech policy areas are you looking for?
We’re not focused on a single area of tech policy; instead, we’re interested in providing students and faculty at Georgetown with a wide range of perspectives on tech policy. It’s up to applicants to demonstrate the relevance and importance of their chosen area in their application. Whether it’s spatial computing, AI auditing, autonomous drones used in warfare, or another emerging field, we encourage you to show us how your work pushes boundaries and tackles pressing tech policy issues, and how you will engage the Georgetown community to make it come to life.
14. Can I apply if I need Ethics Committee approval?
Yes, but you must indicate whether you need approval from an Ethics Committee to accept the position during the application process.
15. Can I meet with TPP team members during the application period?
To maintain fairness, candidates should not meet with TPP staff during the open application period. Meetings are encouraged before or after the application period. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
16. What happens if I am waitlisted?
If you are waitlisted, you may be offered a fellowship if another selected candidate declines the offer. You will be informed of your status following the interview and review process. We typically notify waitlisted candidates within three to five days.
17. What are the benefits of participating in the fellowship?
Fellows will gain:
- Opportunities for networking and professional development.
- Engagement with cutting-edge tech policy issues.
- A platform to share research and policy perspectives with the Georgetown community.