Who Should Apply to CESP?

The Community Engaged Scholars Program is designed for students and adult learners who want to spend focused time developing a research, writing, or community-based project. If you have an idea you want to explore, a project you want to strengthen, or work you have started but not completed, this program provides a structured space to continue developing it.

You may find the program to be a good fit if you are looking for time, structure, and guidance to think more clearly about your work and make steady progress. This includes high school students, college students, graduate or doctoral students, and adult learners who are working on independent or community-based projects.

Students may be at different stages, including:

  • high school students
  • undergraduate students
  • master’s students
  • doctoral students (including new graduates)

You participate as an individual and may bring experiences from academic, professional, or community settings into the program.

Areas of interest may include:

  • community-based projects
  • participatory or community-informed research
  • educational or outreach initiatives
  • program or initiative development

The program works best for people who are ready to take an active role in their own development. You do not need to have everything figured out, but you should have a clear direction and be willing to spend time working on your ideas throughout the duration of the program. Participation involves showing up consistently, engaging with others, and continuing your work between sessions.

This program is designed as a learning experience. It is not intended for situations where you need someone to complete work for you or provide formal evaluation. Instead, it is best suited for those who want to develop their own work with guidance and support while remaining responsible for their progress.

If you are looking for a structured environment where you can focus, build your skills, and move your work forward over time, this program may be a good fit for you.