The Chayes International Public Service Fellowships are dedicated to the memory of Professor Abram Chayes ’49, who taught at Harvard Law School for more than 40 years. Professor Chayes was a leading authority on international law, and throughout his career, as a lawyer, arbitrator and legal advisor, he took on notable cases arising from military and paramilitary activities in Nicaragua, boundary disputes in Africa, and the genocide in Kosovo, among many others.

Accordingly, these fellowships provide Harvard Law School students with the opportunity to spend eight weeks during the summer working with governmental or non-governmental organizations concerned with issues of an international scope or relevant to countries in transition. Chayes Fellows’ projects can take a variety of forms, but could focus on development of legal, political, social, and economic institutions, constitutional and legal issues in emerging democracies, or reconstruction of war-torn societies, among others.

The Chayes Fellowships not only allow a cadre of Harvard Law School students to offer their skills to governments and organizations undertaking critical work, but also provides students with practical, first-hand experience with the complex issues faced by societies in development or transition. Chayes Fellows become part of a network of individuals engaged with organizations working in societies in transition around the world.

Chayes International Public Service Fellowships are awarded to HLS J.D. students who have completed at least one year of law school by the coming summer and to in-residence HLS S.J.D. students. The fellowships provide students with the opportunity to spend eight weeks during the summer working with  governmental or non-governmental organizations concerned with issues of an international scope or relevant to countries in transition. HLS students previously awarded Chayes Fellowships are eligible to apply as long as they meet all other eligibility guidelines.

The process of evaluating placement options, applying for a Chayes Fellowship, and finalizing a student’s summer plans begins in November and continues into the spring.  Follow the links to the left for helpful advice, a complete timeline, and more details about each step.

For more information click "LINK TO ORIGINAL" below.