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Fullbright U.S. Student Program Opens April 2
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is the largest U.S. exchange program that offers funded, year-long post-graduate research, grad degrees, arts projects, and teaching opportunities in one of 140+ countries around the world. Fulbright facilitates cultural exchange and promotes mutual understanding for an increasingly globalized society.
UT has consistently been named a Fulbright Top Producer due in part to URF’s expert advising, resources, and application support for UT students and alumni.
There are TWO ways you can learn more about the Fulbright experience and how to apply.
Additionally, URF will be hosting a Fulbright Student Panel event on April 23rd, 3:00-4:00PM, in the Student Union, Room 377A (the Executive Dining Room near the Big Orange Pantry).
AURA Awards Available to Fund Independent Research and Creative Projects
The Advanced Undergraduate Research Activity (AURA) program promotes advanced research and creative activities by awarding $1500 stipends to students who collaborate with a faculty mentor to design an independent research/creative project for summer 2024.
All currently enrolled UTK undergraduate students not graduating in May are eligible to apply. Research may be conducted independently or in support of a capstone.
Stipends of $250 may be available for research, materials, and travel expenses. An additional $250 may be available for the faculty mentor’s materials to support the AURA awardee.
Interested in applying? Applications close April 5th.
Knight-Hennessy Scholarship @ Stanford University: Information Session
URF is pleased to host Christian Tanja, an admissions director from the Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford University, who will host an information session on April 2nd from 5:00-6:00 PM in Student Union #360.
In addition to providing three years of funding, Knight-Hennessy Scholars cultivates and supports a multidisciplinary and multicultural community of graduate students from across Stanford University, and delivers engaging experiences that prepare graduates to be visionary, courageous, and collaborative leaders who address complex challenges facing the world.
Fellowship Advising to Enhance your Academic and Professional Career
Nationally competitive fellowships and scholarships support a wide range of activities that can orient or enhance your academic experience and professional career.
You could study abroad, work in a year-long cohort, advance into leadership, explore the policy arena in your field, or deepen your creative or research prowess. There is no perfect, ideal, or even typical candidate. Review committees seek interesting applicants and consider the whole person.
Become a Leader of Undergraduate Research Ambassador (URA)
URA is a student-led mentoring group providing peer-based support for undergraduate students seeking and involved in research at UTK. URA is hosting elections at its next meeting on Wednesday,April 3rd and invites new and returning students interested in campus leadership and undergraduate research to attend, vote, and run for office.
The positions to be filled include the following: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Event Coordinator, Social Media Committee Chair, Student Outreach Committee Chair, and Faculty/Community Liaison Committee Chair.
Upcoming Graduation Accolade Applications and Info Session
URF recognizes graduating students for their outstanding commitment to undergraduate research and fellowships by awarding those who qualify with an item of recognition to wear at commencement ceremonies.
There are two levels of recognition: Excellence in Undergraduate Research receives a specialty cord, and Distinction in Undergraduate Research receives a specialty medallion plus the cord.
Attend a Graduation Recognition Information Session on Wednesday, April 17, from 4:00-4:45 PM via Zoom.
Learn more and apply for an Undergraduate Research and Fellowships Graduation Accolade by following the link here!
The deadline to apply for spring graduation is May 1st.
URF Travel Grants for Conferences
Presenting at a conference? Here’s a way to get your travels partially funded.
Apply for a URF Travel Grant to present your undergraduate research or creative work at a non-UTK sponsored conference or event.
The grants vary by location: $300 for in-state conferences, $500 for national conferences, $800 for international conferences, and $100 for virtual conference registration.
Apply by May 1st, 2024 for travel between April 1 and June 30.
Fullbrighters with Disabilities: Disability Justice in India
As a 2018 US Fulbright Research Grantee to India, Istou Diallo, explored notions of disability in Indian society while highlighting strategies disabled Indians employed to challenge their societal and political marginalization.
At this Fulbrighters with Disabilities event, Istou will share what led her to research this topic, what she learned comparing disability justice movements in the U.S. and India, and tips for prospective Fulbright applicants.
A Q&A session will occur towards the end.
Attend this virtual event to learn more about Diallo’s experience as a Fulbrighter and her research.
Introducing and Debunking Fulbright Grants for BIPOC students
On April 4 at 6:30 pm ET, hear about the Fulbright Program (where you can research, study, and teach abroad) from BIPOC Fulbright alumni, including the experience representing America abroad and the application process.
The event will include a moderated discussion and Q&A. Hosted by Fulbright NOIR, Fulbright LOTUS, and Fulbright LATINX.
Application opens for the Jones Center for Leadership’s Leadership Knoxville Scholars Cohort
The Leadership Knoxville Scholars (LKS) seeks UTK’s most exceptional student leaders for a two-year opportunity to forge meaningful connections with influential figures in the Knoxville Community.
As a Leadership Knoxville Scholar, you will be challenged and empowered through instruction, mentorship, and leadership of a chosen Community Action Project.
Applications to join the 2026 cohort are now open and close April 5th, 2024.
April 3: Undergraduate Research Ambassador (URA) Meeting, 4:00 PM in Melrose Hall E102 April 4: Introducing and Debunking Fulbright Grants for BIPOC students. Register Here April 8: Getting Started in Undergraduate Research. Register Here April 9: Research Poster Design: Thinking Beyond the Text. Register Here April 15: Keys to Effective Presentation of Research Results. Register Here April 17: Graduation Recognition Information Session, 4:00-4:45 PM via Zoom. Register to attend April 19: Fulbrighters with Disabilities: Disability Justice in India, 11 AM – 12 PM, click here to RSVP April 23: EURēCA in the Student Union Pilot Flying J Ballroom, 4:30 – 8:00 PM April 23: Fulbright Student Panel, 3 – 4 PM, Student Union Room 377a (Executive Dining Room), click here to RSVP
