NextGen Public Service Fellows

The NextGen Public Service Fellows program is a dynamic program in the School of Politics, Society, Justice, and Public Service (SPSJPS) designed to ignite students’ passion for making a difference while building the skills, confidence, and connections needed to shape a better future. NextGen welcomes students from all majors who have an interest in exploring meaningful pathways dedicated to the public good.

SPSJPS’s NextGen Public Service Fellows program is part of a national network of 28 programs through the Volcker Alliance’s Next Generation Service Corps. The Volcker Alliance is dedicated to inspiring talented, driven students to pursue meaningful paths in public service. This national community facilitates CMU NextGen students’ access to new opportunities, clearer pathways into impactful careers, and support to navigate career barriers.  

Why should you become a fellow? 

As the world grows more complex and the challenges before us become harder to solve, the need for thoughtful, value-driven leadership has never been greater. This program may be right for you if you want to help shape a better future through service and purpose. 

By becoming a fellow, you will have the chance to develop the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to become part of the next generation of public service leaders who will tackle these issues head-on. You will learn from experienced public service professionals, hands-on training sessions, and work together with individuals who share an interest in making a positive impact on society. 

So, if you’re passionate about making a difference in the world and want to be part of the solution, apply to join the NextGen Public Service Fellows program today!

Academic programs 

Participants will complete the 9-credit Public Service Certificate. This certificate combines foundations of public service, policy and decision-making in action, and strategies for advocacy and impact.

Co-curricular experiences 

NextGen members will gain access to a variety of co-curricular experiences, including regular speaker events focused on public service, professional development workshops, and one-on-one mentoring support.

Cohort experiences

Students will take part in cohort retreats and can attend national NextGen Service Corps events where they will have the opportunity to network with fellow NextGen Service Corps members from across the nation.

Leadership opportunities 

Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their potential as future leaders by taking on leadership roles within the program as it grows over time.

Eligibility 

Students may apply to the NextGen Public Service Fellows program up until their final year of undergraduate studies. Students must have adequate time to complete the program’s academic certificate.

Entry to the program is open to all CMU undergraduate students who have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher (or a high school GPA of 2.5 or higher for incoming freshmen). *We also understand that there are many reasons why a student may not have a 2.5 GPA. We will still consider applications from candidates who do not meet this requirement but still demonstrate strong public service potential. If you do not meet the eligibility criteria but are still interested in participating in the program, please reach out to the program director, Dr. Sharon Kukla-Acevedo, via email at kukla1sa@cmich.edu to discuss your situation. 

Application process and deadlines 

Applications for Fall 2026 entry are now open! 

Submission Deadline: September 6 
Application Processing: September 7-11 
Final Decisions: September 14 
Student Notifications: September 16 

As part of the application process, applicants are required to provide short responses (between 150-250 words) to the following prompts: 

• Why are you interested in joining the NextGen Public Service Fellows program, and what do you hope to gain from participating in the program?
• Please describe any prior activities that you have been involved in that demonstrate your commitment to public service.
• What social issue(s) are you most passionate about?

Applicants may also upload a copy of their resume, although this is not required.

Questions? 

If you have any questions about the NextGen Public Service Fellows program or the application process, please contact the program director, Dr. Sharon Kukla-Acevedo, via email at kukla1sa@cmich.edu, 989-774-3122.

Frequently asked questions 

How long does the program last? 

The Next Gen Public Service Fellows program is a two-year commitment. This is to ensure that NextGen members can complete the program components and make the most of the opportunities that are afforded to them as part of the program.

How much time will I be required to commit to the program? 

The NextGen Public Service Fellows programming has been designed to fit around students’ existing academic and extra-curricular commitments. Students will be expected to attend and participate in cohort events (these can include leadership seminars, open houses, and/or career sessions). Other NextGen events, including field trips, may also be arranged from time to time. 

Who is the ideal NextGen candidate? 

There is no such thing as an “ideal” NextGen candidate. We encourage undergraduate students from all majors to apply to the program. That said, we are particularly interested in hearing from candidates that: 

• Have demonstrated a commitment to public service through volunteer activities and/or community involvement 
• Are passionate about igniting social change and implementing solutions for key societal challenges 
• Are interested in working collaboratively across sectors (i.e., government, the non-profit sector, and private industry) to adopt a multifaceted approach to public policy issues 
• Are intending to pursue careers in public service (whether in government, the private sector, or the non-profit sector) 

Are there any opportunities to network with other Next Generation Service Corps members? 

One of the benefits of becoming a fellow is gaining access to the NextGen Connect networking platform, which will allow them to build connections with fellow Next Generation Service Corps (NGSC) members and alumni from across the country. This platform will allow members to access and share opportunities that broaden their knowledge and skill set, including jobs, events, and more. NextGen Connect also facilitates mentor-mentee relationships, empowering both NGSC alumni and students to grow and develop as leaders.