This application cycle is currently closed.
The Colburn Student Opportunity Fund provides need-based support to undergraduate students who have secured experiential learning opportunities in civic engagement, public leadership, public policy, and public service beyond the confines of the Alachua County community.
Eligible expenses may include, but are not limited to:
- internships
- conferences
- fellowships
- research
Awarded amounts may range from $500 – $1,500 depending on the funds available and the financial need of a Colburn applicant.
Applicants from any undergraduate major and college at the University of Florida may apply. Pell-eligible students are encouraged to apply.
Selection
Preference will be given to students with demonstrated financial need and those who have not yet had the chance to engage in experiential learning. Each application will be evaluated using a rubric to ensure fairness and consistency.
Eligibility
- Enrolled, full-time degree-seeking undergraduate at UF
- 2.75 GPA
- Identified experiential learning opportunity outside of Alachua County related to civic engagement, public leadership, public policy, and public service.
Students will be required to upload proof of their application or acceptance for the experiential learning opportunity. This may include a conference registration receipt, offer letter, application receipt, etc. Note that while you may apply for funding before being selected for the opportunity, proof of acceptance is required before any funds can be disbursed.
Deadline
The application cycle is currently closed. Please see below for application dates for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Apply
Please read this page completely before beginning your application. For your convenience, you may access a copy of the application at the following link: Application PDF
Apply by visiting the following link: Fall 2024 Colburn Opportunity Fund Application
Application Dates and Timelines
Application windows for the 2024-2025 academic year are as follows. Applications submitted outside of the funding windows will be considered during the next cycle, so be sure to plan accordingly depending on the dates of your learning opportunity.
- August 14, 2024-September 8, 2024 (funding decision by September 14, 2024).
- December 4, 2024- January 20, 2025 (funding decision by January 31, 2025)
- April 2, 2025-April 20, 2025 (funding decision by May 2, 2025)
- June 11, 2025-July 13, 2025 (funding decision by July 25, 2025)
Recipients will be required to sign a contract stating the funds will be used for the specific experience they applied for. Recipients will also be required to provide an impact statement within two weeks of completion of their experiential learning opportunity.
About Dr. David Colburn
A beloved professor of history and Provost Emeritus at the University of Florida, Dr. David R. Colburn served as the director of the Bob Graham Center for Public Service from 2012 to 2019. Throughout his time serving the Center, Dr. Colburn built academic and civic programs, leadership initiatives, and dozens of research opportunities for undergraduates. His emphasis on the importance of experiential learning for students led to the creation of the Colburn Student Opportunity Fund.
Contact
Please email Professor Rebecca Burton with any questions regarding the Colburn Student Opportunity Fund.