The Digital Citizen Fellowship is an exploration of how technology, the internet, and digital culture shape our democracy. It's built by digital natives, for digital natives.
Join weekly lessons and engage with experts on everything from social media algorithms and AI to extended realities. Together, we'll learn how to harness future technologies to build a brighter world.
The Digital Citizen Fellowship is an exploration of how technology, the internet, and digital culture shape our democracy. Join weekly lessons and engage with experts on everything from social media algorithms and AI to extended realities. Together, we'll learn how to can harness future technologies to build a brighter world.
ApplyApplications for the Spring 2024 class close on January 21st, 2024
High school students from anywhere in the United States. Students whose gap year began in June 2023 are also eligible to apply.
The program begins in early February and ends in mid-April, and requires about two hours per week.
The program is digital-first and entirely free for accepted students.
Students will also have the opportunity to attend an in-person gathering of academics, policymakers, and technologists in Washington, D.C.
Just a few of the fields you'll dive into during the Fellowship.
Every week, you'll participate in a focused lesson delving into specific aspects of digital technology and its role in shaping our democracy. Following each session, you'll have the chance to join a Q&A session with an expert in the field, enhancing your understanding of the day's topic.
Baratunde Thurston and Chris Lewis are just a few of our confirmed speakers – with more announced as we get closer to the program!
This program goes beyond a mere historical overview of the internet or an academic course. Every week, we dive into the technologies and emerging trends that are taking over the conversation.
Are you curious about the mechanics of VR and AR, or intrigued by how TikTok trends might revolutionize political discourse? If these questions resonate with you, then this program is made for you.
At the end of the program, Civics Unplugged will connect you with folks on the ground who are doing the work. If you want to do your own thing, you can apply for funding to build technology, craft policy, or continue exploring the digital future.
Your path as a civic innovator extends far beyond the completion of the program. As a graduate of the Fellowship, you will unlock a tailored collection of empowerment tools designed to assist you in following your passions and making a significant impact on the world.
How long is the Civic Innovators Fellowship?
The Fellowship requires about 2 hours per week, and consists of a weekly lesson, and some asynchronous work. It begins in February and ends in mid-April.
Who is eligible for the Fellowship?
High school students from anywhere in the world. Students whose gap year began in June 2023 are also eligible to apply.
Is the Fellowship Free?
Yes! It costs nothing to participate in the Fellowship or any other Civics Unplugged program.
What is the acceptance rate?
Typically our programs have a 10-14% acceptance rate.
What are the application requirements?
The application consists of basic demographic information and a few written response questions to gauge your potential as a civic innovator.
Does CU have a political affiliation?
No, CU is a non-partisan organization. And in fact, our training helps students grow into thinkers and leaders whose identity and impact transcend conventional political bounds.
When do applications open and close?
The application for the Civic Innovators Fellowship - Spring 2024 opens on December 1st, 2023 and closes on February 1st, 2024.
How long is the Digital Citizen Fellowship?
There are 8 weeks of lessons and an extra two weeks to complete your final project called a Case Brief.
Who is eligible to apply?
High school students from anywhere in the world. Students whose gap year began in June 2023 are also eligible to apply.
Is the Fellowship Free?
Yes! It costs nothing to participate in the Fellowship or any other Civics Unplugged program.
What is the acceptance rate?
This is the first Digital Citizen Fellowship – but we assume the acceptance rate will be around 25%.
What are the application requirements?
The application consists of basic demographic information and a few written response questions to gauge your interest in the digital world and potential as a civic innovator.
Does CU have a political affiliation?
No, CU is a non-partisan organization. And in fact, our training helps students grow into thinkers and leaders whose identity and impact transcend conventional political bounds.
When do applications open and close?
The application for the Civic Innovators Fellowship - Spring 2024 opens on December 1st, 2023 and closes on January 21st, 2024.
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The Digital Citizen Fellowship is a 10 week educational program for high school students interested in data, AI, algorithms, social media, and the digital world. During the program, you’ll learn about everything from the history of the internet and machine learning to how new technologies can strengthen our democracy.
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Applications Close: April 5th, 2024, at 11:59 PM EST