Position: FDI Fellow
Organization: Florida Debate Initiative, Inc. (FDI)
Reports to: Assigned Department Mentor
Location: Remote or Hybrid — FDI Headquarters, Oviedo, FL
Status: Semester Fellowship — Fall or Spring
Compensation: $1,000 stipend per semester

Overview

The FDI Fellows Program offers college students hands-on experience in nonprofit and public administration while advancing the Florida Debate Initiative’s mission of civic literacy and K–12 debate education.

FDI admits three Fellows each fall and spring semester. Each Fellow is matched to one FDI department based on interest and skills, works on meaningful projects, and is paired with a department mentor for guidance and professional development.

This is a learning-focused fellowship—ideal for students exploring careers in education, nonprofit management, communications, or public service—offered remotely or in a hybrid format, with a $1,000 stipend per semester.

Key Responsibilities

What Fellows Do — Primary

• Departmental Projects: Contribute to real projects and initiatives within the assigned FDI department.
• Research & Resources: Conduct research and help develop educational resources, materials, and content.
• Event Support: Assist with event planning and coordination for FDI programs and tournaments.
• Outreach & Communication: Support communication and outreach to schools, students, educators, and communities.
• Fundraising & Development: Assist with fundraising and development efforts, depending on departmental placement.
• Capstone Contribution: Complete a meaningful project or deliverable that supports the department’s goals.

Program Experience & Mentorship

• Orientation & Training: Complete an orientation and training in public speaking, event planning, and project management.
• Mentorship: Meet regularly with an FDI mentor who provides guidance, feedback, and support.
• Skill Building: Build skills in leadership, teamwork, communication, and civic engagement.
• Availability: Work a flexible, part-time schedule remotely or in a hybrid format. Occasional evenings or weekends may be required around events.

Department Placements — Based on Interest

Educational Programs • Tournaments/League (FCDI) • Communications

Qualifications

Candidate Background

• Current college student in any year. Recent graduates and motivated high school seniors may also be considered.
• Interest in education, public administration, communications, or nonprofit work. Debate experience is welcome but not required.

Experience

• Academic achievement and involvement in extracurricular activities, volunteering, or community engagement.
• Clear communicator who is comfortable working through email and video calls in a remote setting.
• Eagerness to learn, take initiative, and contribute to a mission-driven team.
• Applicants are selected competitively based on achievement, involvement, and commitment to civic engagement.

Skills & Competencies

• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Organized and dependable, with the ability to manage assignments and meet deadlines.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Comfortable using Google Workspace, Zoom, and common online tools.
• Genuine commitment to civic engagement and the FDI/FCDI mission.

Application

Submit a letter of interest and résumé detailing relevant experience to info@floridadebate.org.

SEND LETTER OF INTEREST & RÉSUMÉ TO:
info@floridadebate.org

The Florida Debate Initiative, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.