Student Commons Fellows Program
$1,800 Stipend
Open to All Majors
No Project Idea Required
Yearlong Cohort
What is the Fellows Program?
Fellows explore campus life, learn from different perspectives, and build skills to strengthen community at MSU.
Why This Matters at MSU
Our campus is full of energy, talent, ideas, and challenges. Fellows explore what matters, imagine what’s possible, and help strengthen belonging at MSU.
" What we do - and how we do it - matters. Belonging is everyone's responsibility."
The Fellow Journey
Inside the Experience
Shared Meals
Good food. Better conversations.
Guest Educators
Learn from campus and leaders and community voices.
Campus Listening
Go to where life happens and listen on purpose.
Mentorship
One-on-one guidance from staff and alumni.
Project Funding
Seed funding to bring your ideas to life.
Community Feedback
Share early. Improve together.
What Fellows Will Learn
Want to learn more? View the full competency framework in the Fellows Program Brochure.
The Capstone Project
Fellows begin with a question, observation, concern, or possibility—not a predetermined solution. Through listening, learning, and collaboration, they develop and test a small-scale initiative based on what they discover.
Projects might include:
Fellows receive guidance, collaboration, and project support along the way. The goal is not to solve a complex issue alone, but to practice responsible, informed, and collaborative action.
You do not need a project idea before applying.
Who Should Apply?
The Fellows Program is for students who are curious about campus life, want to learn from others, and care about making a meaningful contribution to the MSU community.
You may be a great fit if you:
- Are curious and willing to ask questions
- Enjoy learning through conversation and experience
- Listen before jumping to solutions
- Want to build relationships across different perspectives
- Are open to your ideas changing as you learn
No previous leadership experience is required—just curiosity, openness, and a willingness to participate.
Who can apply to the Student Commons Fellows Program?
The Student Commons Fellows Program is open to all currently enrolled Montana State University undergraduate and graduate students who have completed at least one semester at MSU before the fellowship begins. Students from all majors and backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Applicants must:
- Be currently enrolled at MSU Bozeman.
- Have completed at least one in-person semester at MSU before the fellowship begins.
- Be enrolled in at least four credits.
- Be available to participate throughout both the fall and spring semesters.
- Be able to attend the fall retreat and regular cohort sessions.
Students graduating in December are not eligible because the program requires enrollment during both the fall 2026 and spring 2027 semesters.
Do I need to have a project idea before applying?
No. You do not need to have a project idea before you apply. The fellowship is designed to help you identify a meaningful campus need, learn from others, and develop a thoughtful response throughout the program.
What does a typical session look like?
Each session includes facilitated learning, meaningful discussion, and time to work on your project with support from mentors, campus partners, and fellow participants.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. There is no cost to participate in the program. All program materials are provided.
How are applications reviewed?
Applications are reviewed using a consistent rubric that focuses on curiosity, reflection, openness to learning, willingness to collaborate, and the ability to listen and engage thoughtfully. You do not need to have a fully developed project idea to be selected.
Can I apply if I'm graduating in December?
No. Because the fellowship spans the full academic year, participants must be enrolled during both the fall and spring semesters.
What if I have to miss a session?
Fellows learn together throughout the year, and each session builds on the previous one. While occasional conflicts may arise, participants are expected to attend the required sessions whenever possible.
How often does the fellowship meet?
The fellowship includes:
- 11 sessions during the fall semester (September–December)
- 1 retreat in September
- 14 sessions during the spring semester (January–April)
- 1 public capstone showcase in April
When do sessions take place?
Sessions are held one evening each week throughout the semester. Applicants will indicate their availability during the application process, and the final meeting schedule will be shared with accepted fellows.
What is the time commitment?
Fellows should plan to attend all scheduled sessions, complete weekly readings and reflections, participate in project planning and implementation, and contribute to the final showcase. While the workload varies throughout the year, participants should expect to dedicate approximately 3–5 hours per week to the fellowship.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
If you have additional questions about the Student Commons Fellows Program, please contact Sophia Bielsky at Sophia.Bielsky@montana.edu.
Will fellows receive financial support?
Yes. Each fellow receives a $1,800 stipend. Approved capstone initiatives may also receive funding and material support based on their scope and needs.
Ready to Apply?
Questions? Contact Sophia Bielsky