CTP Application Process

Overview

We look forward to receiving your application to the Candidate Training Program. Please read through all of the instructions below before you complete the online application. If you have questions about the program, please contact Sarah Campbell: sarah.campbell@virginia.edu.  

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IN A NUTSHELL

Application Timeline

  • November-January: Applications accepted
  • February: Interviews and selection
  • February/early March: Acceptance packets distributed; forms and payments due 
  • March: Program runs for four intensive days at the end of March

Application Requirements

  • Completing on online application which includes:
    • short essay questions
    • background/contact information
  • OPTIONAL: Submitting by email (do not mail) to sorensenapplications@virginia.edu: 
    • resume
    • two letters of recommendation (no more than 2 will be reviewed) 

Application Deadlines

Program Applications Open Applications Close Application Process Link to Application
Candidate Training Program Notify me when the application window opens
 

Application Components

PLEASE NOTE: This is an online application. We are not able to save partially completed applications. For this reason, we recommend that you prepare everything you will need to complete the application in advance of filling out the online form.

Application Short Essay Questions

The online application includes a number of short-answer essay questions. Each question requires a 250- to 500-word answer. The essays are a significant part of the selection process and very important to the admission decision. The essay questions are as follows:

  1. Describe your recent leadership activities. What do you consider to be your highest leadership achievement so far?
  2. What academic, community, governmental, political, professional or other activity are you most proud of? What barriers have you encountered while pursuing this activity?
  3. What political office are you planning to run for? When are you planning to run?
  4. What does state or local government in Virginia do well?
  5. What would you like to change about government in Virginia?
  6. What specific skills, knowledge or resources do you hope to acquire as a result of participating in the Sorensen Institute Candidate Training Program?

 

Application Contact and Background Information

The online application also requires the following information: 

    1. How did you learn about the Sorensen Institute?
    2. Current employment: employer, your title, your supervisor, work address and phone number
    3. Education: high school, college, graduate school, and any relevant non-degree training programs
    4. Past Employment: list any past employers including your title, supervisor, and dates of employment
    5. Activities: list any past organizations and activities that demonstrate your commitment to public service, community involvement, and/or volunteer work.
    6. Contact information: your current mailing address, home phone, work phone, cell phone, and email address
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    QUESTIONS? 

    If you have questions about the Candidate Training Program or the application process, please contact Sarah Campbell: sarah.campbell@virginia.edu.