Independent Study and Research

Independent Study and Research
Latin American Studies Research Grants

Research Grant Program in Latin America and the Caribbean

The Latin American Studies Committee invites applications for this year's research grant program in Latin America and the Caribbean.
 
Established in 2000 by the Latin American Studies Committee, and funded by the office of the Dean for Academic Affairs, these research grants are intended to increase understanding and awareness of the region among sophomores and juniors majoring in any academic discipline. The grants support student research in Latin America and the Caribbean that contributes to a subsequent independent study or honors project. The on-site research can be conducted during the summer months, between semesters, or to extend study away experiences.
 
Recipients will spend three to four weeks in the region conducting research, and, upon their return, write a two-page report summarizing their research and results. During the following semester, their research must be used as the basis to conduct an independent study or honors project under the direction of a faculty member.
 
Applicants are expected to develop proposals in consultation with a faculty mentor who agrees to supervise a subsequent independent study. Awards are made on the basis of the candidate's academic record and competence in the language spoken in the target country, the quality and feasibility of the project described in the narrative proposal, the project's relevance to the student's educational program, and the faculty mentor’s recommendation. A subcommittee from the Latin American Studies Program reviews applications every spring.  Grants cannot be used to support language training or study away programs. Funds are available for travel, room and board, and research expenses up to a maximum of $2000.
 
Applications for a Latin American Studies Travel Grant must include:
1.     A narrative proposal, no more than 1000 words in length. The proposal should explain the topic or problem to be researched, the student's background on the proposed study, the methods of study to be used, the sources of information to be analyzed, and other resources of significance (such as foreign faculty, institutions of higher learning, government or non-governmental organizations, a working bibliography, etc.).  The proposal should also identify preliminary contacts that indicate the feasibility of the project.
2.     A current Bowdoin transcript (print-out from Bearings is acceptable)
3.     A recommendation from the faculty member who has agreed to supervise the project, which comments on the feasibility of the proposed study.
 
The criteria for selection will include: the quality and feasibility of the project described in the narrative proposal and the project's relevance to the student's educational program.
 
The deadline for applications is March 1, 2010.

Completed applications should be sent to Emily C. Briley, Latin American Studies, Pols House.
Questions can be directed to Enrique Yepes, Director of Latin American Studies.