Weekly outline

  • General

    ChesterSemester Fellowship Spring 2023

  • Weekly 15/5s

  • Final Assignments

    • Assignment icon

      White Paper Revision

      white paper is a research-based essay that critically analyzes complex issues, past responses to such issues, and contemporary solutions. It is designed to help readers understand a particular problem, how past responses to this problem have worked or not, and the value of a proposed set of steps toward addressing the problem in real time. Learning how to write and disseminate an academic white paper – thereby integrating both critical analysis and solutions mapping – is a skill-set that will serve your development as a ChesterSemester fellow. As well, beyond college, this skill-set will greatly aid fellows’ competent civic engagement and personal and professional wellbeing. 

      Write a final white paper of approximately 8-10 single-spaced pages (including notes and bibliography). Structure your paper with an introductory thesis, a development of your thesis in the paper’s main body, and concluding recommendations at the end of your paper. Carefully proof-read your work. (See examples of white papers from Kyle Richmond-Crosset from the PSRF program 2019 and Zoha Ashraf, Harry Hou, Ava Hull and Zahara Martinez from ChesterSemester Spring 2022 attached below).

      Use the following to organize and structure your paper:
      • Abstract: single paragraph overview
      • Key words: list 7-9 keywords that underlie your analysis; this should go under the abstract paragraph
      • Introduction: approximately ½ page summary of your paper’s major points of analysis and overall contribution
      • Challenges: approximately 2-3 pages of your analysis of (1) civic challenges you set out to address as a fellow this term, and (2) past or current gaps you perceive in addressing these challenges. What is happening on the ground you find most troubling? What is missing in collective approaches to addressing this troubling situation?
      • Case study: approximately 2-3 pages of thick description of the particular issues you are investigating. Oftentimes students shift into a different mode of discourse in this section. Consider writing autobiographically or ethnographically in this section, using your weekly reflection postings.
      • Recommendations: approximately 2-3 pages of proposed solutions to the challenges you’ve identified. What models and resources do you think are positively addressing – or could positively address – the challenges on which your paper has focused?
      • Bibliography: ½ page. Cite and list upwards of 7-9 or so bibliographical sources in your research; this list can include course readings and materials. Use whatever citation and bibliography style you prefer.
      ChesterSemester earns credit in both Environmental Studies and Black Studies. Use both of these areas of study to provide your paper's academic framing in order for readers to understand how you address the intersectional disadvantages and harms communities of color face in the wider society.

      Here are other resource recommendations:

      Please do not hesitate to contact any of us for guidance and support!

    • Page icon

      This is a brief presentation on your learning, internship experience, reflections, and fellowship takeaways. The dress rehearsal will be April 28th.

      • Final presentations (May 1st) will be from 10-12:30pm.
      • Extended invitations to prospective Fall '23 ChesterSemester Fellows, Lang Center staff, Chester partners, select faculty members, etc.
      • Please keep your presentations to about 5 minutes per person.