After successfully placing fellow, Nicolette Bidarian in the United States Congress last summer, the National Iranian American Council (NIAC)—a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that promotes civic participation among the Iranian-American community—invites Iranian-American college students to apply to its Summer 2007 Public Service and Journalism Fellowship.

This program is the first and only initiative offering Iranian-American students the opportunity to experience public policy-making first hand in the nation’s capital. The full-time paid internship will run for 11 weeks this summer in a Congressional office. NIAC will cover travel to and from Washington, DC, housing for three months, and a stipend of $500 per month. Typical responsibilities of the intern may include attending committee hearings; working on special projects; researching legislation; general office duties; and other activities that promote first-hand knowledge of the American legislative process.

All college and graduate students who are US citizens or legal permanent residents of Iranian descent are eligible and encouraged to apply. The selection process is highly competitive; applicants will be judged on the basis of their academic credentials, demonstrated interest in community and public service, and ability to fulfill the needs and expectation of the Congressional office they will be placed with. A background in public policy, political science, economics, or international affairs is preferred.

Interested students should submit by March 20, 2007:

• A completed application, including all eight required parts.
• Resume
• Current college transcript
• Three letters of recommendation, two academic and one from an employment supervisor
•  500-word essay addressing the following question: How has being Iranian American influenced your decision to pursue a career in public service or journalism?

Click here for an application and full instructions.

Completed applications are due March 20. At the end of the summer internship, the fellow will be required to submit to NIAC a summary report on the internship experience.

For more information visit ww.niacouncil.org.