Pew Leadership Year website

The Pew Leadership Year provides individuals who are dedicated to building a leadership career in the public or nonprofit sectors with hands-on experience in solving today's most challenging problems. By applying a rigorous, analytical approach to public policy advocacy, research, government relations and communications, Pew Leadership Year participants gain invaluable perspective on developing fact-based solutions to improve public policy, inform the public and stimulate civic life.

Called "fellows", Pew Leadership Year participants have recently completed an undergraduate or advanced degree and serve in full-time, paid positions. Individuals selected for the program start in September and continue working through August of the following year. Fellows are asked to commit to the entire duration of the program. All positions are based in the Washington, D.C. office.

Fellows develop valuable professional skills while making important contributions to Pew's work. They learn and hone abilities that help them thrive during the Pew Leadership Year and in subsequent career choices.

Application Requirements: 

Eligibility is open to individuals graduating with a bachelor's degree or advanced degree in the period between December and August of the year the fellowship begins. An applicant must have the legal right to work in the United States at the time of application and through the duration of the program.

The criteria for assessment of applicants include:

  • Evidence of superior academic achievement
  • Demonstrated analytical skills through academic studies and/or work experience, including an ability to synthesize large amounts of information and focus quickly on the essence of an issue
  • A strong commitment to producing measurable results
  • Demonstrated leadership capabilities
  • Excellent written and oral communications skills, including an ease in communicating complex concepts in a clear, effective manner for a general audience
  • Demonstrated interest through academic study and/or prior full-time or part-time work experience in building a leadership career
  • Demonstrated understanding of policy, research, and organizational issues
  • Ability to perform substantive research
  • Results-oriented style with a focus on process and achievement
  • Recognized ability to meet multiple deadlines by maintaining a high level of organization
  • Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to develop and manage productive relationships with colleagues

    • Individuals who have studied the following areas are strongly encouraged to apply: economics, political science, environmental science, health science, communications, journalism or public policy.

Benefits: 
  • Full-time, year-long paid position

Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted by a recruiter. Successful candidates will receive full benefit information from Pew Charitable Trust and the Pew Leadership Year.