Kraft Global Fellows Program Returns to Santiago in 2024: Apply Until January 17

Applications are now open for the Kraft Global Fellows Program, an interfaith and cultural exchange trip to Santiago during Spring Break 2024. The program is an initiative of the Kraft Family Fund for Intercultural and Interfaith Awareness, as well as a collaboration with the Office of the University Chaplain and Columbia Global Centers, offers selected fellows the opportunity to engage in a unique group research project focusing on the religions, cultures, and communities of the destination country.

Led by University Chaplain and Associate Provost Jewelnel Davis, this year's research trip to Santiago, Chile, will take place between March 7 and 16. The program, funded by the Kraft Family Fund, covers round-trip airfare between New York and Santiago, as well as accommodation for selected students.

Part of the mission of the Kraft Global Fellowship is to infuse a global perspective into the academic experience of Columbia students, utilizing the resources of the Columbia Global Centers. Upon their return, fellows contribute to the Columbia community by sharing their research, experiences, and the resources made possible through the Global Centers.

Chaplain Davis, along with the Kraft fellows, will be visiting Chile and the Santiago Center for the third time, following previous trips in 2014 and 2019. For this year’s program, fellows are encouraged to explore relevant topics such as multi-faith interconnectivity and issues of diversity in Chile. Applications will be accepted until Jan. 17, 2024.

GUIDELINES TO APPLY

Prospective fellows are required to submit the following documents:

• Letter detailing interest in the Kraft Global Fellows Program group research trip, including a demonstrated interest in religion or interfaith understanding (minimum 600 words)
• Updated resume
• Current list of student activities and leadership roles at Columbia University
• Official transcript
• Copy of passport
• Writing sample (minimum 600 words)
• Two letters of recommendation, with at least one from an academic advisor or faculty member (not limited to Columbia staff)

APPLICATION PROCESS

• Students must interview with Chaplain Davis and the KGF advisory group to discuss their interests in this group project.
• All requested materials must be submitted by Jan. 17, 2024, by 5 p.m. (ET). Out of time submissions will not be considered.
• No exceptions will be made for new passports or passport renewals.
• Only students selected for interviews will be contacted.

* Please submit these materials and any questions to Elmer Barcenes: [email protected]

REQUIREMENTS

• Applicants must be currently registered as full-time Columbia University undergraduate or graduate students. Online, Part-time, or students at affiliated institutions (e.g., Barnard College, Union Theological Seminar and Teachers College) cannot be considered for the program.
• Out-of-pocket expenses for personal items are anticipated.
• Students will submit daily 2-page reflection papers to Chaplain Davis throughout the program.
• On April 5, 2024, each student will submit an 8-10 page final paper, including a trip description and a comprehensive analysis and reflection on major learning themes.
• Students must have a current passport valid through March 2024.
• Travel to and from New York will be done as a group. No exceptions.

*For additional information, please visit the Kraft Global Fellows Program website.