Become A Fellow
October 14, 2025 2025-12-19 20:23Become A Fellow
"Leadership means to do the hard thing and humble myself. Knowing I will never know everything and I can learn something from EVERYONE."
—Grace-Anna Perry, 2025-26 Fellow
What is the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship?
This 15-month interdisciplinary program is designed for graduate and professional students in health-related fields who want to create real, community-driven change. With the guidance of dedicated mentors and community partners, Fellows design and implement a health-focused service project that addresses a pressing need right here in Alabama.
If you’re ready to step beyond the classroom and into the community, to grow as a leader while making a meaningful impact—this Fellowship is for you.
What are the benefits?
What makes the Fellowship special?
How do we define Health?
Health:
a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
-World Health Organization (WHO)
Rooted in this holistic understanding of health, Schweitzer projects address not only clinical health issues, but also the social determinants of health—defined by the WHO as the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age, and which are mostly responsible for health inequities.
Fellowship Project
As a Fellow, you’ll partner with a local community agency to create and carry out a project that delivers direct service to an underserved population—reducing health disparities and improving quality of life. On your application, you’ll list an Academic Mentor, propose two possible project areas, and suggest one or more potential community partners. During your first month, we’ll help you refine your focus, connect with community leaders, and match your passions and skills to a meaningful need.
Your project will:
You may adapt an evidence-based strategy or develop a completely original project.
Note: Research, fundraising, and policy-only projects are not eligible for the Schweitzer Fellowship.
Check Your Eligibility
Eligibility Criteria
We welcome applications from:
Prior to Applying
Get a head start and make your application shine. Take time to explore what the Fellowship offers, learn from those who’ve gone before you, and connect with staff to make sure your ideas are ready to take shape.
Fellowship Requirements
Participation in the Fellowship comes with specific commitments designed to maximize your impact and growth.
Orientation Retreat
Mandatory attendance at the in-person Welcome Workshop (Feb. 21, 2026) and in-person Orientation (April 11–12, 2026). Applicants unable to attend should not apply.
Service Project
Partner with a local community agency to design and implement a 200-hour* service project (separate from any course requirements). At least half the hours must be direct service; the rest may include planning, research, and admin work. Receive guidance from a site mentor, academic mentor, and the Executive Director. *Paired projects are allowed with adjusted hours and stipends.
Reports & Evaluation
Submit monthly reports/reflections, a final project presentation, and remarks for the Celebration of Service. Complete pre- and post-program surveys; site mentors complete a final evaluation.
Bi-monthly Training
Attend in-person leadership workshops, skill-building sessions, and networking opportunities.
Recruitment Support
In the fall, assist with info sessions and presentations to help recruit future Fellows. Also, serve as “hosts” for virtual interview sessions.
Stipend
Receive up to $2,500 (distributed in four installments) plus up to $100 for project expenses.
Celebration of Service
Introduced at the April 11, 2026 event; return the following April to present project outcomes.
Required Materials
Application Timeline
September 1, 2026
September-January
January 26, 2026
First week of February
Second week of February
Mid-February
Upcoming Info Sessions
Curious about becoming a Schweitzer Fellow? Our Virtual Info Sessions offer an easy way to learn about the Fellowship experience, hear project examples, and explore how your ideas can serve the community.
Connect with staff and Fellows, ask questions, and get inspired to take the next step.
Fellowship Q&A with Executive Director
Join our Virtual Office Hours for a one-on-one (or small group) conversation with program staff. It’s your chance to talk through the application process, explore potential project ideas, and get guidance to set you up for success.
Click the button to join the Zoom session during any of the dates and times below:
Apply to Join ASF
Whether you’re applying on your own or with a partner, your opportunity to lead and serve begins now.
Click below to submit your application & view past fellows.
What's Happening with ASF
Who We’re Looking For
ASF is looking for graduate students who lead with empathy, curiosity, and courage. If you believe your studies are a platform for impact—not just a career step—you belong here.
