The application period for Summer 2026 has closed.
Application
➡️ Access our new High Road Fellowship application via Experience Cornell.
In your application, make sure to note if you have particular placement preferences and why.
About the Program
Make a place
Cornell ILR’s extension history begins with Buffalo. Since 1946, ILR has played a vital role in the region, working in partnership with businesses, unions, government, education and community organizations to build an economy that works for all. High Road Fellowships were launched in 2009 as a new way to connect students with practitioners with local leaders who were driving change in the local economy.
Make it work
Through the High Road, fellows are in Buffalo for eight weeks in June and July. They earn a $5000 for 300 hours over the course of the summer. Fellows work with their host organizations on an individual project Monday through Thursday and then participate in group programming on Fridays with workshops, panel discussion, and tours around the city. Explore the 2026 High Road Placements before applying. *Be sure in your application to note if you are open to any placement and if you do have particular preferences, why you are interested in/suited for that particular place or project.
Make it happen
The 2026 program will run June 1–July 24, in-person. Group housing in a vibrant neighborhood in Buffalo will be facilitated for every High Road Fellow with access to public transportation, bike share and/or a secure parking lot for a personal automobile.
A required one-credit pre-course, ILR 3052: "Community Controlled Economic Development: The Case of Buffalo NY," will be held in the spring semester.
An application, resume, and transcript are required.
FAQs
Does Cornell pay for housing?
No. Students pay for their own housing. Some students have received housing support through other scholarships offered by other departments/organizations/affiliations.
Questions?
Email High Road Program Coordinator Kricky Ksiazek, ks844@cornell.edu.