The Watson Scholar

The John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research is pleased to announce the 2025/2026 Watson Scholar program. This prestigious opportunity provides a select student with valuable professional development and hands-on experience in public policy, legislative research, and community engagement. 

Overview:

This unique opportunity provides unmatched exposure to the inner workings of government, ranging from constituent services to legislative decision-making.

Through this immersive experience, the selected student will gain a well-rounded understanding of how legislation is crafted, how public needs are addressed, and the pivotal role government plays in shaping communities. The student will engage in dual internship/career experience, working with the District Office in Ewing, NJ, and the Washington, D.C. Office of Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman.

In addition, the student will have the chance to travel to Washington, D.C., for intensive professional development and networking, including participation in policy analysis sessions and observation of congressional voting.

The scholar's responsibilities will include: 

Ewing, NJ – District Office (Constituent Services): 

• Managing constituent correspondence, including intake from calls, letters, and walk-in visits. 

• Assisting constituents and businesses with navigating federal government programs and services. 

• Conducting research for constituent-based committees and preparing for events like town halls and mobile office hours. 

• Supporting outreach events such as service fairs and passport clinics. 

Washington, D.C. Office (Legislative): 

• Assisting legislative staff with policy research, including drafting bills, letters, and amendments. 

• Participating in the appropriations process by preparing research briefs, tracking amendments, and supporting budget hearings. 

• Draft memos and track bill co-sponsorships and legislative letter sign-on. 

• Attending meetings with stakeholders, lobbyists, and advocates, representing the Congresswoman’s office as needed. 

• Assisting with legislative correspondence and communications. 

Eligibility:

• Enrolled undergraduate students at Kean University from NJ Congressional District 12 (Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset Counties) are highly desired. 

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 

• Open to all majors, with Political Science and Public Administration majors strongly encouraged to apply. 

 

Desired Qualifications:

• Strong interest in public policy, legislative processes, and civic engagement. 

• Familiarity with local, state, and federal government systems. 

• Strong written and oral communication skills. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace. 

• Knowledge of academic research protocols. 

• Demonstrated ability to analyze and present data effectively. 

• Ability to work independently and seek support as needed. 

 

Application Requirements:

• Current Resume: Highlighting relevant experience and skills (Include organizations, volunteer experience).

• Writing Sample: Demonstrating writing, analytical, and research capabilities.

• Personal Statement: Discussing interest in public policy, career goals, and expectations for the scholarship. 

• Three (3) Letters of Recommendation: 

  • At least one faculty member
  • One professional (current and former employer) reference

How to Apply:

Submit your application materials via email to CURF. Incomplete applications will not be considered. 

For more details, CURF or contact Dr. Keisha Griffin at the Watson Institute at griffkei@kean.edu 

• Application will open on October 1, 2025.
• Application will close on November 17, 2025.

All requirements must be submitted by the deadline, November 17, 2025. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application Link

Scholarship Details:

• Duration: January 2026 to June 2026.

• Commitment:  

  • 15 hours per week during the fall and spring semesters at the Office of Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman in New Jersey. 
  • Work at Congressional Office in Washington, D.C.

• Locations:  

  • Watson Institute, Kean University (Trenton or Union Offices) 
  • Office of Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (District and Washington, D.C.). 

• Compensation:  

  • Paid stipend 
  • Travel and accommodation support for Washington, D.C., assignments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Legislative research and drafting (bills, memos, reports). 

• Constituent services, including casework and outreach events. 

• Policy analysis on health equity, social justice, and other critical areas. 

• Weekly reflective journals and research projects culminating in a presentation at Kean Research Days. 

• Participation in professional development and mentoring activities. 

Benefits:

• Practical experience in research, policy analysis, and community engagement. 

• Mentorship from experienced professionals. 

• Enhanced communication and leadership skills. 

• Opportunity to build a professional network. 

• Eligibility for academic credit based on program requirements.

Timeline:

• Applications Open: October 1, 2025

• Information Session: 

• Deadline: November 17, 2025

• Interviews and Selection: 

• Orientation: 

 

John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research

To learn more about the Watson Institute, please click here.