Vinson Fellows Program
Vinson Fellows Program
Learn about local and state government.
Jai Gonzales, who graduated in December with a bachelor’s degree in geography with certificates in urban studies and GIS, examined the remote work landscape in Georgia since the pandemic.
Sara Anis Ali, a second-year political science and international affairs major, explored the correlations between food insecurity and chronic school absenteeism among Georgia youth.
Meera Srinivasan, a second-year political science major, focused on evaluating survey methods for hard-to-reach populations.
Program Background
The Vinson Fellows Program is an experiential learning opportunity for UGA's undergraduate students who are interested in state and local government. Through the program, students have an opportunity to become involved in our training, applied research and technical assistance programs and other projects for state and local governments in Georgia and internationally. The Vinson Fellows program is support by the Parent Leadership Council.
Program Highlights
The goals of the Fellows Program are to:
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Inform students about the work of the Carl Vinson Institute of Government.
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Inspire students to engage in research projects that address today’s complex challenges.
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Provide innovative opportunities for students to learn and engage with our diverse group of experts throughout their fellowship experience.
Selected Vinson Fellows may elect to continue their research experience into the spring semester by participating in Center of Undergraduate Research Opportunities programs, like the CURO Symposium or Best Paper Awards.
Program Details
As Vinson Fellows, undergraduate students will be matched with a mentor in one of our ongoing training, technical assistance, applied research or communications programs.
All interested students, regardless of class standing, are encouraged to apply. Fellowships are offered during the fall and spring semester.
The Carl Vinson Institute of Government offers fellowships through our seven divisions:
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Governmental Training, Education and Development
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Government Services and Research
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Infrastructure and Community Resilience
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Workforce and Economic Development
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Office of Communications
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Information Technology Outreach Services
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Survey Research and Evaluation Services
- All undergraduate students who hold a 3.0 cumulative GPA and are in good standing with the University of Georgia are encouraged to apply.
- Students should have an interest in the workings of state and local government, in Georgia or internationally.
- Students must have excellent writing, organization, and communication skills and desire to develop their research competencies.
- Vinson Fellows Online Application, which includes:
- Statement of Interest: Candidates should indicate why they wish to participate in the Vinson Fellows Program by sharing a 500-750 word Statement of Interest. Students should also describe which division(s) they are interested in serving within and what specific knowledge or skills they can contribute to the Carl Vinson Institute of Government.
- Current UGA transcript: Unofficial copies will be accepted. The transcript should reflect grades received thorough the most recent semester
- One recommendation form from a faculty or staff member who can speak to the applicant's qualifications for the fellowship. Recommenders must share the reference form directly with the Institute of Government via email.
- Please contact cviog-students@uga.edu with any questions or concerns.
The Vinson Fellows Program will accept applications for the Fall 2025 cohort during
Spring 2025.
