Along with the Washington-Hillsdale Internship Program (WHIP), the George Washington Fellowship is the chief component of Hillsdale’s undergraduate education programs based at Hillsdale College’s Washington, D.C., campus. Launched in 2008, the program prepares outstanding students for a career in the public square by focusing their studies on America’s founding documents and on leading statesmen and thinkers who have upheld the enduring principles of American constitutionalism. It has four components: additional curriculum regularly focusing on American political thought and constitutional history; frequent discussions with visiting scholars; rotating research and writing projects that serve as preparation for civic deliberation; and participation in WHIP during one academic semester. The Fellowship includes a generous scholarship of $5,000 per semester beginning in the spring of the fellow’s sophomore year.
ADMISSION, RETENTION, AND CURRICULUM
Students interested in the Fellowship may apply during the fall semester of their sophomore year. Selection is based on three criteria: outstanding academic achievement and dedication to scholarly excellence; initiative and leadership in extracurricular activities relating to civic life; and demonstrated interest in public affairs and public service. Students considering majors in any field of study may apply for the program, and applications are evaluated by a faculty selection committee. Applicants should have a freshman GPA of 3.5 or higher; a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or greater is required for maintenance of the scholarship. All Hillsdale College students are required to take three core courses in history and politics: HST 104, Western Heritage; HST 105, American Heritage; and POL 101, The U.S. Constitution. In addition to these, Washington Fellows will take additional courses from a list of options. Students can find more details and apply on the Hillsdale in DC website.