Urban Leadership Fellows Program
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First launched in 1992 by the Municipal Forum of New York, the Urban Leadership Fellows (ULF) Program is a highly competitive, paid summer internship for graduating New York City high school seniors interested about careers in finance. In partnership with Futures and Options, the program offers students a unique first-hand experience in the municipal securities industry, including areas like trading, underwriting, and credit analysis. Through the program, students gain valuable insights and practical skills, preparing them for future careers in finance.
Program Highlights
Each summer, 30 students are selected to participate in a six-week internship beginning after July 4th. In addition to working at leading financial firms, interns attend:
- Career readiness workshops
- Bond School
- A public speaking seminar
- A Field Trip (subject to scheduling)
- Networking events and mentorship sessions
Interns are paired with young professionals in public finance for guidance and support throughout the program. The experience concludes with a closing luncheon, where each intern receives a $500 book grant from the MFNY to put towards their college expenses.
ULF alumni may also qualify for college scholarships based on academic performance and community service.
Since its inception, the MFNY has provided ULF internships to over 850 students and awarded more than $1.5 million in college scholarships to ULF alumni.
Admission Process
Admission to the ULF Program is highly competitive. Futures and Options recruits students from NYC public high schools and evaluates applicants based on academic performance, technical and interpersonal skills, and a written application that includes an essay, recommendation, and transcript. Final selections are made after interviews, considering both individual qualifications and the needs of sponsoring firms.
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Intern Testimonials
"This program has made me realize that the finance industry is a place I can see myself working."
"I just wanted to thank the ULF program, Futures and Options, and the Municipal Forum of New York for giving me this amazing opportunity. I really enjoyed working at the bank and most of all building my network. I made good friends in the ULF program, I met other interns here at JP Morgan who also participate in Futures and Options, and built good relationships with my coworkers at the firm."
"It offers opportunities that are not found elsewhere and is definitely a unique program."