Extending Experiential Learning and Research Opportunities
One of the ways in which the HRP contributes to the experiential learning of HLS students is by supporting Winter Term fellowships through the Winter Term International Travel Grants that are awarded through the International Legal Studies (ILS) office.
Out of the three semesters (fall, winter, spring) of the academic year, the winter term takes over a three-week period in January (thus also called the J-term). For more information on the HLS winter term visit the Winter Term page of the HLS website. Students interested in the winter term international travel grant program can find additional regarding eligibility, funding and applications on the ILS website.
HLS Students can apply to participate in a two-credit Independent or Continuing Clinical during the Winter Term, which involves working 40 hours per week under the supervision of an on-site attorney and in coordination with an HLS faculty sponsor. For more information, contact the Office of Clinical and Pro Bono Programs. Please note that HLS students are not eligible for credit for an “internship” abroad unless it meets the criteria of an independent clinical placement.
Students engaged in writing projects worth at least two credits may also apply to the Winter Term Writing Program. This program offers the opportunity for intensive, individualized research and writing under the supervision of an HLS faculty member. You can find further information under the Winter Writing Program FAQ, including specifics regarding credits (Go to “J.D. Winter Writing Program” for J.D. students; LL.M. students will receive information on the LL.M. Winter Writing Program directly from the Graduate Program). Please note that HLS students may not take courses at a foreign law school as a way of earning credit for Winter Term.
On occasion, opportunities arise for HLS students to intern with a UN agency, treaty body or Special Rapporteur, or to work with an international or regional human rights court or mechanism. The HRP’s Visiting Fellows sometimes seek student research assistants as well.
Students should strive to learn more about the field of human rights through training, research, writing, and project work with a student group. The HRP partners with more than a dozen student groups and especially with the Harvard Law Student Advocates for Human Rights and the Harvard Human Rights Journal.
HLS Advocates for Human Rights is an independent student group dedicated to building the human rights community at Harvard Law School, providing students the opportunity to engage in significant human rights work.
The Harvard Human Rights Journal is produced by an independent student organization that works closely with the Human Rights Program, and is published annually. Members of the Journal edit articles written by scholars, and students contribute writing of their own. HRP has also collaborated in hosting online symposia.