Who is eligible for this fellowship?

This fellowship is designed as a career exploration opportunity for young adults. For this inaugural cohort, you must be a current undergraduate or graduate student OR Opportunity Youth as described.

As we are aiming to engage students in emerging ecosystems, students at the 9 University of California Schools, 23 Cal State Universities, and Opportunity Youth will be prioritized. Candidates that may not attend, but live in cities where these institutions are present are also welcome.

Additional candidates will be admitted up to capacity for a robust exchange of ideas. All majors are welcome to apply.

What is the time commitment?

For the fellowship, each weekly class will consist of 1.5 hours of guest lectures and presentations. We will send read-ahead materials before each session so that Fellows are prepared for the discussion. We expect the reading materials to take no more than 1 to 1.5 hours each week. As Fellows become interested in a particular career path, additional research may occur on their own time.

For the competition, weekly office hour sessions will be available for guidance from topical experts. Additionally, Fellows will decide how much time to allocate to preparation between a 2 to 5-page research paper and presentation, which can be completed solo or within a group. We would expect strong competitors to spend 6-10 hours per week during the competition period.

What are the key benefits of participating?

By participating in this fellowship, you will gain:

• Deep dive info on multiple high-growth career paths complete with salary information and additional resources

• Access to industry leaders and national professionals on a weekly basis

• Community of like-minded, innovative peers in locations spanning across California, a great network-building opportunity

• Resume-building credentials as a 2024 TAM Fellowship Graduate (attendance requirements applicable)

• Additional resume-building credentials as a 2024 TAM Fellowship Prize Competition Finalist or Winner (as applicable)

• Opportunity for prizes up to $5,000

• Opportunity to participate in the in-person graduation celebration (attendance requirements applicable)

• Certificate of completion for all those meeting attendance requirements

Am I required to participate in the prize competition?

There is no requirement to participate in the competition. Only candidates who participated in the Fellowship will be eligible to compete in the competition. The competition serves as an opportunity to put learning into action and give Fellows the opportunity to do deep-dive research in an area of their choice with the potential for prizes.

How can I best prepare for the prize competition?

Only participants of stage one will be eligible to compete in stage two. Fellows must attend at least 4 out of 5 sessions before the graduation date in stage one to be considered graduates of the fellowship program and to be eligible to compete for prizes and recognition up to $5,000.

The competition will consist of a 2 to 5-page research paper and presentation on similar themes across Founding, Funding, or Developing. All fellows will be required to conduct interviews with at least 3 parties to be eligible for the competition. Fellows may work in teams or individually. Additional guidance will be provided on the kickoff day and throughout the fellowship.

Please note: any prize winners of awards over $600 will be required to complete an IRS W-9 form complete with SSN or TIN. A 1099 will be issued at year-end for all awards over $600 and taxes may be applicable, please consult your tax advisor.

What do I need to bring to this inaugural cohort?

Bring yourself, a can-do attitude, good character, punctuality to all classes, and the analytical, operational, and strategic skills you possess to support you and your cohort’s growth.

Any additional questions?

For questions about fellowship eligibility, deadlines, and more, contact our Fellowship Lead, Mika Jain, Manager of University Programs at mika @ blendedimpact.com