HBCU Fellowships for Undergraduates?

I'm a junior looking into my future college plans and I'm intrigued by the concept of fellowships. Do HBCUs offer fellowships for undergraduate students, and how might they be different from scholarships or financial aid? Looking for experiences from those who may have applied or received one.

Absolutely, HBCUs do offer fellowships for undergraduates. These fellowships can provide not only financial assistance but also unique academic and research opportunities. They differ from typical scholarships as they may involve specific projects or research responsibilities, and often engage students in advanced study or community initiatives. My child, currently attending an HBCU, was proactive in reaching out to the faculty in their desired department to inquire about such opportunities.

They discovered that many fellowships are faculty-driven, arising from research grants or industry partnerships. My advice would be to get in touch with the financial aid office of the HBCU you're interested in and to explore the school's website to look for undergraduate research or fellowship opportunities. Don't hesitate to contact professors or department heads either, as they can be invaluable resources. Additionally, look into organizations affiliated with the HBCU that may offer fellowships to students in specific fields. Starting this search early is key since the application process can be quite competitive and rigorous, very much like a job application with interviews, proposals, or project outlines.