Mellon Mays GAP
The Mellon Mays Graduate Assistance Program supports recent Mellon Mays Fellows with mentoring, resources, and bootcamps to help bridge the transition from undergraduate to graduate study and academic careers.
Funder: Institute for Citizens & Scholars
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026 (program application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Not specified; program provides structured support, mentoring, and funded bootcamps for gap year fellows.
Summary: Supports recent Mellon Mays Fellows with resources, mentoring, and community to bridge the gap between undergraduate and graduate study and prepare for academic careers.
Key Information: Open only to alumni of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship.
Description
The Mellon Mays Graduate Assistance Program (GAP) is designed to support recent graduates of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship as they transition from undergraduate to graduate study. The program addresses the challenges faced during the gap year(s) between earning an undergraduate degree and pursuing a Ph.D., such as reduced academic contact, time management, and work-life balance. GAP offers a comprehensive suite of resources, including structured gap year activities, peer accountability, live and on-demand media, predoctoral coaching and mentoring, networking opportunities, and intensive bootcamps (with most expenses paid) to prepare participants for graduate school. The ultimate goal is to strengthen the pipeline of scholars from diverse backgrounds entering graduate programs and academic careers.
