Governor Rick Scott Invites College and University Students to Apply for Gubernatorial Fellowships

Tallahassee, Fla. – Governor Rick Scott invites college and university students to apply for the 2011-2012 Gubernatorial Fellows program. Participation in the program provides Florida college and university students with firsthand, high-level experience and insight into how state government operates. Established in 2004, and endowed by Al and Dawn Hoffman in 2005, the program gives Florida college and university students the unique opportunity to work alongside state government’s top staff for two semesters.

Students can visit www.floridafellows.com to learn about the expectations and requirements of the program, as well as testimonials from alumni. Interested students must apply online, and the site includes complete information about the recruitment process.

Gubernatorial Fellows are assigned to the Executive Office of the Governor and the Governor’s agencies, based on their major or area of concentration. Fellows work a minimum of 20 hours per week and are paid for their time on the job. Fellows also participate in a weekly lecture series, where they meet face-to-face with prominent leaders, including Governor Scott, Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll, Cabinet officers, agency heads and other top government officials.

Fellows also participate in policy study trips throughout Florida and in Washington, D.C. These additional commitments are designed to broaden the Fellows’ exposure to state government and enhance the experience of all participants.

“Through the Gubernatorial Fellows program, I was given the opportunity to interact with the top leaders of our state – leaders who make important decisions for all Floridians,” said Sarah Criser, deputy press secretary for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. “This real-world work experience demonstrated how dedication, commitment and a vision can lead to success and innovation for Florida. I look forward to carrying these values forward in my current role and future positions.”

“The program provided extraordinary opportunities to participate in real governance, to sit at the table with current and future state leaders,” said Tyler Cathey, Class III Fellow and associate with Holland and Knight.

To be eligible for a Gubernatorial Fellowship, candidates should be enrolled at a Florida college or university as an upperclassman (junior or senior) or a graduate student. Applicants should exhibit strong leadership, written and oral communication skills, community activism and a desire to serve the people of Florida. Approximately 12 students from around the state will be selected based on a competitive application process.

Applications are due by Friday, April 1, 2011. The Fellowship will follow the university calendar starting in August 2011 and ending in May 2012. The Governor’s screening and selection committee will announce the program participants during the first week of June 2011.

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