If you are interested in making a difference, serving the people of New York, and helping to write the next great chapter in New York’s history; there is an opportunity for you to keep in mind as you plan your career in public service.  The New York State Excelsior Service Fellowship Program brings graduates into government service.  Excelsior Fellows work alongside senor members of the administration and play a policy-influencing role in New York State with the opportunity to work on the most pressing issues of the day.

The program is accepting applications for the 2014-2016 class from students who are graduating this academic year (February 2014 or May 2014).    International students are eligible to apply; however, you must have U.S. work authorization for the duration of the fellowship, as the State does not provide employment sponsorship.

To apply, students must provide a personal statement (one page or less, describe your interest in public service, referencing academic, professional, and civic experiences that demonstrate such interests.  Additionally, discuss your career goals and how the Excelsior Service Fellowship will contribute to these goals.), resume, graduate school transcript(s), one recommendation letter and submit it to: [email protected] by February 10, 2014.

BACKGROUND

This fall, approximately 80 individuals newly graduated from college, graduate and professional schools from across New York State and the nation will begin their service as Excelsior Service Fellows.  The New York State Excelsior Service Fellowship is designed to attract the “best and the brightest,” who are called to a career in public service.  Being an Excelsior Fellow is an honor, privilege and full-time commitment.   Fellows serve in a variety of capacities within such agencies like the Department of Environmental Conservation, the Department of Labor, Housing and Community Renewal, the Department of Financial Services, and the Empire State Development Corporation.  Alternatively, Fellows may be assigned to roles in the Governor’s or Lieutenant Governor’s Office.  Each Fellow, in his or her own way, is making important contributions in building the New New York.  The Fellowship is a two-year program that combines both experiential and professional development opportunities designed to nurture and cultivate the next generation of leaders in New York State government.   While not guaranteed, there is the potential for high-performing Fellows to remain in State service at the conclusion of the Fellowship.

Each school may select up to seven (7) Fellows for the 2014-2016 class.  Fellows possessing a graduate degree (i.e. MA, MPA, MBA, or JD) will receive an annual salary not to exceed $70,000.  All Fellows are considered State employees and also receive a full benefits package.  The schools will forward their selections to the Center for Recruitment and Public Service.  Upon receipt of Fellowship candidates, the Program Committee will conduct interviews with each candidate to obtain additional information regarding the candidate’s background and interests.  These interviews are an important component in the Program Committee’s assignment determination process.  It is important to note that while we will accept all program nominations from our academic partners, the State will reserve its right to appoint only the most highly qualified nominees.

Placements are generally in the Albany area (>80%) although some positions may be in New York City and are made based on agency needs.