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The Watson Scholar

Watson Institute

The John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research at Kean University (The Watson Institute) has over 30 years of experience as a “think and do” tank. The Institute was established with the vision of addressing urban challenges through evidence-based research, data-driven policy analysis, and active community engagement. The Watson Institute focuses on areas such as public policy, health equity, and social justice to create sustainable solutions for pressing urban issues. By leveraging the expertise of faculty, researchers, and community partners, the institute has successfully contributed to positive changes in urban communities.

The John S Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research is committed to advancing research, policy analysis, and community engagement in areas related to public policy, health equity, and social justice issues. In line with this mission, the Watson Scholar Experience will provide students at Kean University with valuable opportunities for professional development and career-focused experiences in urban policy, research, and public service.

This opportunity is highly competitive as only one undergraduate student will be selected for the academic year 2024. 

Overview:

The Watson Scholar will:

  • Assist Watson Institute team with public policy research projects

  • Research and assist with analysis of legislative issues identified by the Office of Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman

  • Have the opportunity to work in person at the New Jersey and Washington, DC Offices of Congresswoman Bonnie-Watson Colman

This is a paid opportunity sponsored by the John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research at Kean University.

Requirements for Application:

  • Current Resume

  • An academic writing sample (the academic writing sample could be a research, report or reflection paper from a recent course)

  • Personal Statement (Reflect on your long-term goals and aspirations. In what ways do the Watson Scholar experience resonate with and contribute to your vision for the future? Please provide insights into how this unique opportunity aligns with your personal and professional ambitions and how you anticipate leveraging the Watson Scholar experience to propel yourself toward your envisioned success)

  • Three letters of recommendation (one from a faculty member who can attest to research and writing skills, and one from a supervisor)

Application Link:

  • Application opens on December 11th
  • Application will close on January 16th

Apply Now

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Open to currently enrolled Junior or Senior at Kean University

  • All majors will be considered.

  • Minimum 3.5 GPA

  • Strong interest in public policy and civic engagement

  • Strong or solid familiarity with local, state, and federal government and shared governance

  • Desire to research legislative and policy issues

  • Knowledge of academic research protocol required to identify the data

  • Demonstrated ability to analyze and present data

  • Good verbal and written communication skills and experience with Microsoft suite of office products.

  • Ability to think creatively and be a team player

Benefits:

  • Practical experience in conducting research, public policy analysis, social justice issues and community engagement.

  • Professional development

  • Networking opportunities

  • $8,500 stipend for a full-year commitment

  • Full exposure to the Congressional experience in Washington DC

Duration:

  • Duration: One year experience July 2024 to June 2025

  • Summer Session II- 2024 - In Person at Kean, Union - 20 hours per week

  • Fall 2024 and Spring 2025:15 hours per week during semester Fall and Spring

    • Hybrid mix of remote hours with Congresswoman’s Office and in person hours at the Watson Institute

John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research

To learn more about the Watson Institute, please click here.