Talsky Center: Fellowships

Want hands-on experience working with international experts in human rights? Become a Talsky Center Human Rights Fellow. Since 2012, the Center has funded and supported MSU law students to undertake prestigious human rights fellowships at international organizations and NGOs in the United States and across the world.

Who can be a Fellow?

  • I am an MSU Law College student
  • I am in the my second or third year of law school
  • I have an interest in human rights
  • I have demonstrated good academic aptitude

Benefits of the Fellowship

  • Gain practical experience in human rights at an international organization of an NGO
  • Enhance your profile for future job searches
  • Mentorship from the Talsky Center
  • Earn academic credit
  • Funding to support expenses related to Fellowship

FAQs on Fellowships

Where have students undertaken Fellowships?
Since 2012, students have gained hands-on experience working with international experts at NGOs, UN agencies and other international organizations. Students have undertaken fellowships in the United States, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Tanzania, Egypt, and the United Kingdom.

Where will I undertake an internship?
If selected for a Fellowship, you will be mentored and guided to identify a suitable placement where your interests and strengths match those of a host organization. In consultation with the Talsky Center, students will directly apply to the identified international organization or NGO which decides whether to accept the student.

When can I undertake a fellowship?
Fellowships can be undertaken during the academic term or in the summer months. Fellowships can be from 4 to 6 months, depending on the requirements of the hosting organization. It is important to plan early to make sure a Fellowship fits within your plan to meet other graduation requirements. If interested in a Fellowship, please contact the Director, David Thronson (david.thronson@law.msu.edu).

Are fellowships funded?
Yes. Fellows receive funding to offset a portion of expenses related to their placement. Past support has generally been set at around $5,000.

Want to apply?

  • Send your application to the emails below and include the following:
    • Cover letter (no more than one page)
    • CV
    • Transcripts
    • One writing sample (which is not a brief)
  • If selected, work with the Talsky Center to identify a suitable placement
  • Apply directly to the international organization or NGO and wait for a response
  • If selected by the host organization, plan for travel and coordinate with the Center regarding funding and enrollment

Want to apply or learn more?

Contact the Center’s Director, David Thronson (david.thronson@law.msu.edu) and Deputy Director, Michelle Oliel (michelle.oliel@gmail.com).