Last fall, the center organized a six-part workshop series designed to aid graduate students in grant writing within the humanities and humanistic social sciences. The workshops provided invaluable guidance and practical skills for graduate students.
Over the course of six weeks, participants engaged in comprehensive sessions that covered:
- The basics of the grant-writing process, including finding a mentor and conceptualizing their projects;
- Tailoring applications for specific submissions; and,
- Detailed exploration of various grant funding bodies.
Students received in-depth instruction on preparing proposals, with focus areas including budget preparation, facilities and environment descriptions, approach strategies, and preparation of biographical sketches.
The series also included guidance on the application and review process. Participants were given timelines and support for requesting recommendation letters, enhancing their overall proposal packages.
A highlight of the series was the mock panel evaluation, where participants’ proposals were reviewed in a simulated grant review process. This provided critical feedback and realistic insights into the evaluation process.
Upon successful completion, participants received $300 in professional development funds, which they could use for travel, books, and other academic needs.
Feedback from the 15 selected participants was overwhelmingly positive. They appreciated the detailed and structured approach of the workshops and the practical advice and support provided throughout the series. By its conclusion, the series was a resounding success, equipping graduate students with the tools and confidence needed to pursue grant funding opportunities.