Applications for JEDSI’s diversity pathway programs open today. JEDSI runs two programs that match and support students who are historically underrepresented in the environmental sector into summer internships in the field. Undergraduate students can apply to the Yale Conservation Scholars – Early Leadership Initiative and graduate students (masters and PhD) to the Environmental Fellows Program.
1. Yale Conservation Scholars—Early Leadership Initiative (YCS-ELI)
The Yale Conservation Scholars—Early Leadership Initiative (YCS-ELI) is a transformative summer program designed for undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds, particularly those historically underrepresented in environmental institutions. The program offers scholars the opportunity to participate in environmental internships across the Northeastern United States, including placements in Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, and Washington, D.C.
Orientation
YCS-ELI kicks off with an orientation for accepted scholars. The program begins with a virtual meeting in April to discuss program logistics. The two-day orientation, which takes place in May, may be held either in-person or virtually, depending on circumstances. Scholars will receive detailed information regarding orientation dates and format upon acceptance into the program.
Why Choose YCS-ELI at Yale School of the Environment?
- Competitive stipend for summer internships
- Opportunity to extend for a second summer
- Explore the natural and cultural attractions of Connecticut
- Career consultations and professional development assistance
- Build lasting friendships and connections with students nationwide
- Travel opportunities to explore unique ecosystems
- Access to and partial funding for the New Horizons in Conservation Conference
Why Spend Your Summer in Connecticut?
- Food: Enjoy the legendary New Haven Apizza, Louie’s Lunch (the birthplace of the hamburger), and New England’s famous lobster rolls.
- Amusement: Visit Lake Compounce, America’s oldest operating amusement park.
- Art & Culture: Experience the vibrant arts scene with venues like Yale Repertory Theater, The Shubert Theater, and the Yale University Art Gallery. For music lovers, Toad’s Place is a must-see venue.
- Historical Landmarks: Explore historic sites within a day’s drive, including Plymouth Rock, New York City, Boston, and Salem.
- Nature & Recreation: Connecticut is surrounded by beautiful beaches, nature trails, and opportunities for boating and bird watching along Long Island Sound.
Program Dates for 2024
- Virtual Orientation: Two days in April (dates to be determined)
- Program Duration: May 28 – July 26, 2024
Application Information for 2024
- Application Opens: November 2023
- Application Closes: January 15, 2024, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time
Apply now to join the 2025 cohort! Applications open on October 1, 2024.
Eligibility Criteria
- Interest in conservation and the environment
- Currently enrolled undergraduate student (including December 2024 and May 2025 graduates)
- Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or DACA/DREAMer
- Minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale
- Available for an in-person internship from June 2 to August 1, 2025
Application Requirements
- General Application Form: Complete the online form using the link provided below.
- Transcripts: Upload your academic transcripts in PDF format.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two letters are required from mentors, teachers, or educational figures. Recommenders can upload their letters directly to the portal. Be sure to remind them to meet the application deadline.
- Family or friends cannot submit letters.
- You can add a third recommender if you’re unsure about timing, but additional letters will not improve your application.
If you have any questions or need assistance, reach out to the YCS-ELI staff at ycs-eli@yale.edu.
How to Apply
To apply, use the Submittable application portal, where you can create an account and save your progress to return later. Click here to begin your application.
Start your journey as a Yale Conservation Scholar today!
2. Environmental Fellows Program (EFP) at Yale School of the Environment
The Environmental Fellows Program (EFP) at Yale School of the Environment (YSE) is a 12-week summer fellowship designed to diversify the environmental sector by cultivating the career aspirations of master’s and doctoral students from historically underrepresented groups. This program connects students with opportunities in environmental nonprofits, grant-making institutions, and government agencies.
Program Overview
EFP was established through a collaboration between the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability, the Environmental Grantmakers Association (EGA), and the C.S. Mott Foundation. These partners recognized the need to train and support diverse students for careers in the environmental and philanthropic sectors. The program is supported by several philanthropic organizations and focuses on developing leaders in the rapidly evolving fields of conservation, justice, equity, and philanthropy.
Who Should Apply?
EFP is seeking graduate students who:
- Aspire to broaden their environmental knowledge and perspectives
- Want to develop leadership and communication skills
- Are looking to gain valuable work experience in the environmental field
- Are passionate about increasing diversity in the environmental sector
- Are committed to promoting equity and inclusion
- Are interested in learning about environmental grant-making and its global impacts
- Want to join a growing network of emerging professionals
Testimonials
Janae Davis, 2016 Environmental Fellow: “EFP was instrumental in helping me gain the knowledge and skills necessary to qualify for my current job.”
Quenton King, 2018 Environmental Fellow: “It’s safe to say that EFP changed my trajectory. I wouldn’t have thought I’d be qualified enough to apply for my current job if I hadn’t been a Fellow and learned from the EFP team and co-Fellows.”
Rebeca Villegas, 2018 Environmental Fellow: “After interning with an environmental nonprofit focused on urban planning and environmental justice, I was encouraged to pursue a public sector role. I look forward to growing in this new sector.”
Why Choose EFP?
- Competitive Stipend: $13,000 base stipend for the 12-week summer internship, plus travel support.
- Orientation & Philanthropy Introduction: Helps you navigate your work site and understand philanthropy’s role in environmental work.
- National Placements: Internships at nationally recognized nonprofits, social justice organizations, environmental media outlets, policy think tanks, government agencies, and grassroots organizations.
- Professional Development: Engage with environmental professionals and attend the New Horizons in Conservation Conference.
- Robust Alumni Network: Build lasting connections with peers and professionals in the environmental field.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Training: Participate in DEI training both during and after the program.
- Mentoring & Career Counseling: Access mentoring, career advice, and job market guidance.
- Job Opportunities: Stay informed about job openings and alumni updates even after completing the program.
Eligibility Criteria
- Interest in the environment and conservation
- Completion of at least one year of graduate or doctoral study by the start of the summer internship
- Availability to fully participate in the 12-week program (40 hours/week) and attend orientation events and the New Horizons in Conservation Conference
- Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or DACA/DREAMer (if applying outside Yale University)
- Unfortunately, the program cannot host international students outside of Yale University at this time
Application Requirements
- General Application Form: Complete the online form using the link below.
- Transcripts: Upload your academic transcripts in PDF format.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two recommendation letters from teachers, mentors, or those involved in your education. Letters from family or friends are not accepted. Recommenders should upload their letters directly through the portal by the deadline.
If you have any questions, email the EFP staff at efp@yale.edu. To make edits to your application, contact the EFP staff directly instead of uploading a new version.
How to Apply
The EFP uses the Submittable application portal. Create an account or sign in to begin your application. You can save your progress and return to complete it later.
Click here to apply for the 2025 Environmental Fellows Program.
- EFP 2025 Application Opens: October 1, 2024
- Priority Deadline: December 8, 2024
- Final Deadline: January 7, 2025
Join the next generation of environmental leaders by applying to the Environmental Fellows Program!