Community Engagement Fellowship Application
The BPDA Community Engagement Fellowship offers undergraduate and graduate students an invaluable opportunity to explore a career in public defense. BPDA's mission aims to improve the quality of defense provided to low-income communities across the United States by creating and maintaining a national network of skilled Black public defenders that identify with and are committed to the populations they serve. At BPDA, We believe public defenders are inclusive to social workers, client advocates, investigators, mitigation specialists and beyond who are integral in serving clients within the criminal legal system. We emphasize the significance of holistic defense, equipping fellows with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact. The program includes weekly check in and exposure to different areas of criminal defense to prepare participants for their roles, along with lifelong mentorship to support their professional journey. Designed to inspire a commitment to public defense, this fellowship aims to prepare students for impactful careers in the field. We welcome individuals passionate about defending the rights of indigent clients. If this mission resonates with you, we encourage you to apply.
Name
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First Name
Last Name
What are your preferred pronouns?
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Phone Number
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Please enter a valid phone number.
Address
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Street Address
Street Address Line 2
City
State / Province
Postal / Zip Code
Preferred email?
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example@example.com
Permanent email?
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example@example.com
Where are you originally from?
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What college do you attend?
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What is your major?
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What is your minor? (if applicable)
Anticipated graduation year
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Which host site(s) are you applying to? (Please limit your selections to 3)
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Brooklyn Defenders Services (Brooklyn, NY)
Contra Costa County Office of the Public Defender (Martinez, CA)
Cuyahoga County Office of the Public Defender (Cleveland, OH)
Defender Association of Philadelphia (Philadelphia, PA)
The Legal Aid Society (New York, NY)
Do you have housing in any of these areas?
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Yes
No
Maybe
If not selected for any of your preferred host offices, are you willing to any host site?
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Yes
No
Please submit an essay explaining why you applied to this fellowship and why you should be selected to participate. (Please note that if you are selected to participate in this fellowship, your response may be used for promotional purposes.)
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Please submit a headshot.
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Please submit a short bio.
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Please upload a copy of your resume in PDF format.
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How did you learn about our fellowship?
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BPDA website
Career Services
Social Media
Former Fellow Participant
Other
By signing and submitting your application for BPDA's Fellowship Program, you acknowledge and agree that participation in BPDA's weekly check ins, summer sessions, and any additional programming is a mandatory requirement for consideration. Failure to fully participate in this and any other required component may result in disqualification from the fellowship selection process. Your agreement to this condition is essential to ensure your eligibility for this opportunity. By submitting your application, you confirm that you understand and accept this requirement.
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Disclosure
BPDA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status. We welcome all those interested in a career in public defense to apply.
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