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Distinguished First-generation Research Fellowship (DFF)


Western Kentucky University’s Distinguished First-generation Research Fellowship (DFF) will serve first-generation college students enrolled in graduate degree programs at WKU.  The DFF program includes a two-year graduate research assistantship stipend and full tuition benefits.  Year Two support is contingent upon sufficient progress in Year 1. The WKU DFF program requires a 20-hour per week research experience, therefore, individuals with full-time employment obligations are not eligible.

 

Eligibility Requirements

 

Research and Scholarly Experience

Providing access to high-quality research and scholarly activities is the core mission of the WKU DFF program. DFF scholars will be provided opportunities to meet faculty across campus who will serve as role models.

DFF Scholars will receive assistance in designing their research projects from their faculty mentors, all of whom are members of WKU’s research faculty.  Under the guidance of their faculty mentor, each scholar will conduct independent research based on the design of their research proposal completed during the spring semester of their first year. DFF scholars will be matched with faculty mentors who have similar research interests and have published in their field.

The research experience will culminate with the preparation of the final paper which must be in a format that is suitable for publication in a scholarly journal in the scholar’s field, or a suitable field-appropriate equivalent outcome, and a mandatory presentation at the WKU Student Scholar Showcase.  WKU’s DFF scholars will present their research at local, state, regional, and national conferences within their identified fields of study.

 

FInancial Information

The DFF Program covers up to nine hours of resident face-to-face tuition costs for the completion of a primary graduate degree (Fall, Spring Semesters). DFF fellows are eligible for a stipend of no less than $15,000 per academic year in association with a graduate assistantship. Fellows are also eligible for WKU Graduate Assistant Health Insurance.

 

Application Instructions

The application includes questions about:

1. Your academic background
2. The faculty research mentor(s) you are interested in working with
3. Your research interests, including your professional goals
4. Your accomplishments/experiences, including leadership and/or volunteer experience

Other application requirements:

1. Contact information for at least two references
2. A copy of your curriculum vitae or resume

 

Apply for the Distinguished First-generation Research Fellowship here: Distinguished First-generation Research Fellowship Application

 

 Last Modified 2/28/25