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The Watson Scholar

Watson Institute Scholar 2025/2026: Call for Applications

Watson Institute

The John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research is pleased to announce the 2025/2026 Watson Scholar program. This prestigious opportunity provides a select student with valuable professional development and hands-on experience in public policy, legislative research, and community engagement. 

Overview:

The Watson Institute Scholar will engage in dual experience, working with the District Office in Ewing, NJ and the Washington, D.C. Office of Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman. This unique arrangement offers unparalleled exposure to the inner workings of government, from constituent services to legislative processes. Through this immersive experience, the Watson Scholar will develop a comprehensive understanding of the legislative process, constituent services, and the critical role of government in addressing community needs. Scholars will also be able to travel to Washington, D.C., for intensive professional development and networking, including participation in the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference. 

The scholar's responsibilities will include: 

Ewing, NJ – District Office (Constituent Services): 

  • Managing constituent correspondence, including intake from calls, letters, and walk-in visits. 

  • Assisting constituents and businesses with navigating federal government programs and services. 

  • Conducting research for constituent-based committees and preparing for events like town halls and mobile office hours. 

  • Supporting outreach events such as service fairs and passport clinics. 

Washington, D.C. Office (Legislative): 

  • Assisting legislative staff with policy research, including drafting bills, letters, and amendments. 

  • Participating in the appropriations process by preparing research briefs, tracking amendments, and supporting budget hearings. 

  • Draft memos and track bill co-sponsorships and legislative letter sign-on. 

  • Attending meetings with stakeholders, lobbyists, and advocates, representing the Congresswoman’s office as needed. 

  • Assisting with legislative correspondence and communications. 

Eligibility:

  • Enrolled undergraduate students at Kean University with Junior or Senior standing earned credits as of Fall 2025.   

  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 

  • Open to all majors, with Political Science and Public Administration majors strongly encouraged to apply. 

  • Applicants residing in Congressional District 12 are highly desired. 

  • Students from underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply. 

 

Desired Qualifications:

  • Strong interest in public policy, legislative processes, and civic engagement. 

  • Familiarity with local, state, and federal government systems. 

  • Strong written and oral communication skills. 

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace. 

  • Knowledge of academic research protocols. 

  • Demonstrated ability to analyze and present data effectively. 

  • Ability to work independently and seek support as needed. 

 

Application Requirements:

  • Current Resume: Highlighting relevant experience and skills. 

  • Research Paper: Demonstrating analytical and research capabilities. 

  • Personal Statement: Discussing interest in public policy, career goals, and expectations for the scholarship. 

  • Three Letters of Recommendation: 

    • Two from faculty members. 
    • One professional reference. 

How to Apply:

Submit your application materials via email to CURF. Incomplete applications will not be considered. 

For more details, CURF or contact Dr. Keisha Griffin at the Watson Institute at griffkei@kean.edu 

  • Application opens on March 3, 2025
  • Application will close on April 4, 2025

Application Link

Scholarship Details:

  • Duration: September 2025 to June 2026. 

  • Commitment:  

    • 15 hours per week during the fall and spring semesters at the Office of Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman. Hybrid schedule with remote and in-person work in New Jersey and Washington, D.C. 
    • Attending regular meetings and training with John S. Watson Institute at Kean University 
    • Complete a journal and final paper on experience 

  • Locations:  

    • Watson Institute, Kean University (Trenton or Union Offices) 
    • Office of Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (District and Washington, D.C.). 

  • Compensation:  

    • Paid stipend 
    • Travel and accommodation support for Washington, D.C., assignments.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Legislative research and drafting (bills, memos, reports). 

  • Constituent services, including casework and outreach events. 

  • Policy analysis on health equity, social justice, and other critical areas. 

  • Weekly reflective journals and research projects culminating in a presentation at Kean Research Days. 

  • Participation in professional development and mentoring activities. 

Benefits:

  • Practical experience in research, policy analysis, and community engagement. 

  • Mentorship from experienced professionals. 

  • Enhanced communication and leadership skills. 

  • Opportunity to build a professional network. 

  • Eligibility for academic credit based on program requirements.

Timeline:

  • Applications Open: March 3, 2025 

  • Information Session: March 2025  

  • Deadline: April 4, 2025. 

  • Interviews and Selection: April 2025 

  • Orientation: August 2025 

 

 

John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research

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