Bonderman FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the selection criteria?
Sometimes the most ambiguous guidelines provide the most creative results. We are searching for applicants who are creative, curious, and open. We seek to identify students who demonstrate integrity, the capacity for vision and leadership, and potential for humane and effective participation in the world community. In your proposal please tell us where you want to go and why. Bonderman Fellowships enable students to undertake independent international travel to explore, be open to the unexpected, and come to know the world in new ways.
How long do I have to travel for? Do I have to be gone for eight months?
You must travel for a minimum of eight months in at least six countries in two or more major regions of the world. You are welcome, however, to continue traveling for as long as the money lasts, even if that is well after the eighth month.
When do I have to leave by?
If awarded a Bonderman fellowship in you can embark on your travels at any point between the time you are offered the award and June of the following calendar year (i.e., if awarded a fellowship in Spring 2009 you must leave by June 30, 2010).
Can I break the travel up into smaller sessions as long as I travel for a total of 8 months?
No, this is supposed to be a life-changing experience and total immersion in an experience of other places, peoples, and cultures.
Do I have to travel by myself? Can I ever travel with someone else? What about a spouse/partner? Can two people apply together?
This is a solitary adventure that you must undertake alone. This is not to say that you cannot ever travel with other travelers, but you cannot take your spouse/partner on your travels with you. You also should not travel in organized, group tour situations.
Can I use the fellowship to fund an internship for my degree program, take language classes, or research my ancestors?
No, this award is not to be used to fund research towards your degree, formal study at a foreign university, reconnect with your family heritage, or travel under a of formal organization.
I just heard about the application so I need a little more time to finish the application. Is it possible to turn in the application a little late?
No, the application deadline is final.
If I'm awarded the fellowship do I have to be enrolled when I use it?
No, you don't have to be enrolled. You can even use the fellowship after graduation.
If I'm awarded the fellowship and don't use all the funds traveling, what happens to the remainder of the money?
As long as you fulfill the obligations and responsibilities you take on when you accept the award then any remaining funds are yours to use as you wish. Should you fail to fulfill the requirements you will need to return a portion of the funds.
Are there copies of previously successful proposals that I may study to improve my application?
No, but we have posted short summaries of previous proposals online.
I missed all the information sessions. Will you be holding more sessions or can I come talk to someone about this fellowship application.
If you have missed the information sessions please read the guidelines carefully and let your imagination soar. You may contact Brook Kelly (bbkelly@u.washington.edu), a 2003 Bonderman fellow and adviser with the Honors Program, if you'd like to discuss the fellowship in more detail.