Edmund S. Muskie Professional Fellowship Program

The Edmund S. Muskie Professional Fellowship Program is a professional development program funded by the U.S. Department of State. Since 2015, it has provided emerging leaders of the Fulbright Program from Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia with the opportunity to gain real-world experience that both complements and enriches their graduate studies in the United States. Muskie Fellows show a commitment to developing practical skills and a deeper understanding of U.S. work culture, and a readiness to use this experience to implement positive changes and make a long-lasting impact in their home countries. The fellowship includes a full-time summer internship in the participant's field of study (32-40 hours per week, 10-12 weeks, at least 60% in-person), guidance and resources to help Fellows secure internships, professional development support, in-person events in Washington, D.C. in May and August, and community service activities. Costs to participate in the program are covered by the grant, and participants receive a stipend to cover living expenses in the cities where their internship takes place. Participating host organizations play a critical role in fostering mutual understanding while bringing innovative talent to the U.S. workplace.