Deadline: October 8, 2019
Applications for the Fulbright-National Geographic Storytelling Fellowship 2020 are now open. The Fellowship, a component of the Fulbright U.S. Student Program, provides opportunities for selected Fulbright US Student grantees to participate in an academic year of storytelling on a globally significant theme. This Fellowship is made possible through a partnership between the U.S. Department of State and the National Geographic Society.
For the 2020-2021 competition, the Fulbright-National Geographic Storytelling Fellowship will accept proposals to undertake an in-depth examination of a globally relevant issue as an enhancement to their Fulbright research or arts project. Utilizing a variety of storytelling tools—including, but not limited to text, photography, video, audio/podcasts, public speaking, maps, and graphic illustrations – Storytellers have the opportunity to share their stories, and the stories of those they meet, through National Geographic and social media platforms.
Benefits
In addition to receiving standard Fulbright benefits (for travel, stipend, health, etc.) and a materials and reporting special allowance, Storytellers receive instruction in storytelling techniques, including effective blog writing, video production, photography, public speaking, and other relevant training by National Geographic staff prior to their departure. National Geographic also provide editorial mentorship for Fellows during their Fulbright grant period. Storytellers provide material for National Geographic’s Explorers blog on a frequent and ongoing basis throughout their grant term.
The National Geographic Society supports research, exploration, and conservation throughout the globe with a focus on projects that emphasize science, technology, and storytelling to help protect species-at-risk, better understand human history and culture, and conserve some of our planet’s last wild places.
Eligibility
- Open to applicants for the Fulbright open study/research and arts awards to all countries except China.
- The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated talent for storytelling (including but not limited to publications in print, online or multimedia platforms) and an academic or professional background relevant to their proposed project.
- This application cycle, National Geographic has expressed a strong interest in project focused on Oceans and Water, with a particular interest in plastics, community coastal and fishery management, and biodiversity.
- Project proposals on other topics of interest (including but not limited to science, culture, and conservation) will also be accepted for review and may be selected.
- Candidates from all fields are encouraged to apply.
- Preference will be given to candidates with demonstrated experience and talent in storytelling.
- Candidates must have completed at least an undergraduate degree by the commencement of the Fulbright award.
Application
All application materials, including academic transcripts and letters of recommendation must be submitted in the Fulbright Online Application and Recommendation System by Tuesday October 8, 2019 at 5 pm Eastern Time. Hard copy submissions will not be accepted.
In addition to the Fulbright Study/Research Application, the following supplemental materials are required and to be uploaded into the application:
- Storytelling Proposal
- Storytelling Portfolio and Narrative
Check the Fulbright-National Geographic Application Components (link below) section for guidelines on submitting these required materials. Applicants must select “Yes” to “Are you applying for the Fulbright-National Geographic Fellowship”.
For more information, visit Fulbright-National Geographic.
