resources for leavetaking

1. Health Insurance
2. Housing
3. Other Leavetaking Programs
4. Finding Work Opportunities
5. Books and Publications
6. Funding Opportunities

> how to find funding opportunities

Looking for funding for an unpaid internship, volunteer experience, or self-designed project? There is money to find, but you might have to do a little work to find it.

Be strategic. Do your research. Be persistent.

Before asking for money, ask yourself these questions:
  • Why do I need the money? Be prepared to articulate the private answer for yourself (my parents told me if I can't fund this on my own, then I can't take time off) AND the public answer for others (I need to fund some of my basic needs in order to do this unpaid internship).
  • What do I need the money for? Food, clothing, travel? For savings? Perhaps funding can be found to support you for your basic needs, or to fund the goals of a research or community-based project.
  • How much money do I need? Break it all down item by item in order to come up with the total amount.
Remember, your proposal should consist of a rationale/statement of need and a budget. Also think about: What's in it for them?

where to look, who to ask

On your campus:
Your school may have general information about official funding opportunities, or for funding you on a case-by-case basis. Be sure to check:
  • Departments
  • Career and community service offices
  • Fellowship offices / Deans
  • Financial aid/Loan offices

Your community:
More people are willing to help than you may think! It never hurts to ask:
  • Family
  • Friends
  • Hometown or local community-based organizations
  • Affiliations & projects

never stop researching

Many websites have resources for those looking to fund special projects.

The Foundation Center (http://www.fdncenter.org) - is devoted to helping grantseekers and others in their philanthropic endeavors.

Your campus may also have useful websites:
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