Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is considered to be a sponsoring institution?

A: A sponsoring institution must be a nonprofit organization or institution that can administer the grant award, i.e., administer salary payments and fringe benefits during the Fellowship year. A variety of entities, ranging from academic health centers, universities, and hospitals, to foundations and community health care organizations qualify to serve as a sponsoring institution. Some governmental organizations such as state or local health departments have served in this capacity as well.

Q: When are new applications available? When are new applications due?

A: Typically, the call for applications is posted on the programs website in mid-September. Application packets must be submitted by mid November.

Q: What are some ways to learn more about the program? Can I talk to an Alumnus?

A: One of the best ways to learn about the program is to talk to those who have experienced the Fellowship. The program staff will be happy to provide the names and contact information of alumni who are located in your geographic area and/or those who share a similar professional background. You may also use the Alumni Directory located under the 'Profiles' area of this website to look up Alumni information by geographic location and discipline/profession.

Q: What assistance does the program provide for moving to Washington?

A: Fellows, in addition to the grant award, are eligible for up to $10,000 in relocation assistance. In addition, the program will pay for one round-trip to Washington DC prior to the Fellowship to locate housing. Some additional accommodations may be made for a Fellow moving an entire family a long distance.

Q: How do I find a place to live in Washington? Will the program help?

A: Current Fellows often provide the most helpful advice about housing and convenient locations in Maryland, DC, or Virginia. They will also offer tips on local schools for those bringing children. The program maintains a resource file to assist with this process as well, and offers several good websites that provide comprehensive rental listings for the DC area.

Q: How does the program decide on working assignments?

A: The program orientation provides an opportunity for every Fellow to meet with a wide range of suitable offices with a high level of involvement in health policy. Throughout the orientation, Fellows link up with several excellent placement advisors who discuss the various merits of specific placements and offer thoughts about possible new Fellowship experiences. Ultimately, however, it is the Fellow who decides on a work assignment. The program does not make work assignments but is available to review the range of options.

Q: If I am using my relocation money to take trips home, what expenses are covered?

A: The program reimburses travel (by cab or personal car) to and from air terminals and train stations, as well as round-trip airfare (economy) or train ticket costs.

Q: What kind of hours can I expect during orientation? Are there a lot of evening events?

A: We try to maintain routine 9AM-5PM, Monday thru Friday work hours, with weekends off. Most Wednesday mornings are reserved for independent visits, reading, and other projects. When there are late evenings or a week-end social event or travel requirement, Fellows are alerted well in advance.