Three Social Contract team members collaborate and discuss ideas on a couch in a modern, open office space with a laptop and coffee.

Social Contract Fellowship Program

The Social Contract Summer Fellowship is a paid eight-week immersive personal and professional development program focused on social impact consulting. The Fellowship has been paused for 2025, but we expect to offer the opportunity again in 2026.

The Fellowship program provides unique exposure to meaningful, hands-on work in issue areas, including health and human services, reducing community violence, education, workforce development, and more. Fellows can explore the approaches used to tackle complex social issues as respected colleagues, changemakers, and people. The Fellowship provides an environment for learning, growing, and experimenting under the mentorship of peers, whether you are a recent college graduate, currently in grad school, or even an early- to mid-career professional looking for a change.

What should fellows expect?

Social Contract invests in Fellows’ personal and professional development, fostering confidence and unique expertise that prepares them for life in the workforce. They will:

  • Learn about themselves, the social change process, and how to approach complex issues
  • Participate in meaningful project work, mentorship, and guided reflection on their skills and strengths
  • Sharpen their skills in design thinking and systems change, as well as understanding various sectors involved in social impact work, project management, assessment, and evaluation

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Frequently asked questions

Do you have to be in Delaware to participate?

The Fellowship is held virtually, meaning you do not have to be in Delaware to participate! Our Fellowship leaders are in the Delaware area, so we encourage you to apply if you can engage Monday – Friday around 9:00 am to 5:00 pm EST.

How long is the Fellowship?

The Fellowship lasts eight weeks. It begins with an onboarding period to familiarize yourself with the Social Contract, the team, and your project(s). Then it continues with hands-on project work and concludes with a performance development checkpoint.

Do you need to have prior experience with social justice work?

You do not need specific years of experience to participate in the Fellowship. During our eight weeks, we will cover various social issues and the strategies and frameworks used to help address social issues. To be a Business Development or Operations Fellow, we seek prior experience with specific systems and business operations. Above all, we look for Fellows with a growth mindset.

What does a typical week look like?

Fellows will work 10-15 hours per week. The Fellowship will vary depending on the week and project timeline. For example, the first few weeks will include more intensive onboarding, and then Fellows will transition to more hours on project work. A week’s schedule typically will blend professional development learning sessions and hands-on project work.

Are Fellows paid?

The Fellowship is a paid, part-time position. Salary ranges between $18-25 per hour.

What is the application process?

Applicants apply through our website. Selected applicants will undergo a virtual interview during the first week of May. Then, Fellows will be selected, and Social Contract will notify everyone about their application. Fellowships typically begin in June.

What technology do I need to participate?

Fellowship engagements will be hosted virtually. All Fellows will need access to a computer and WiFi to participate.