Year-round funding available to work with nonprofits on the social and historical implications of firearms use, violence prevention, and public safety.
The Troy and de Wit Grant Fund for the Study of Guns & Society offers Wesleyan University undergraduates an opportunity to engage in meaningful, hands-on research related to the social and historical implications of gun use, violence, and prevention. This grant supports connecting students with nonprofit organizations where they can apply their academic skills to real-world research. Whether during the academic year or as a summer internship, students gain invaluable professional experience while contributing to mission-driven work.
For Wesleyan Undergraduates
This opportunity is designed for students interested in firearms-related public policy research who want to make a tangible impact. As The Troy de Wit Research Scholar, you will receive funding to support your work with a qualified nonprofit. Depending on the position, opportunities may be structured as hourly student employment, or as internship stipends. This is more than just a job; it is a chance to deepen your understanding of complex firearms-related issues, build a network, and develop your research skills. (Note: International students must enroll in CSPL 493 to obtain CPT approval for internships.)
For Nonprofits
We invite nonprofit organizations to partner with us by hosting a dedicated Wesleyan undergraduate student researcher. This program provides your organization with a funded student researcher to assist with projects that advance your mission—at no cost to you. We seek nonprofits who can offer mentorship, clear project goals, and a structured work environment (remote, hybrid, or on-site). By participating, you gain access to bright, motivated students eager to contribute to your firearms-related public policy work that supports public safety, violence prevention, or historical research.
How it Works
CSGS facilitates the connection between students and nonprofits. Organizations submit proposals detailing their research needs and additional details outlined below. CSGS reviews these opportunities and promotes them to qualified Wesleyan students. The Center’s director reviews applications and forwards qualified students to nonprofits for consideration. This process ensures that both students and nonprofits find the best possible fit for a productive and rewarding collaboration.
Next Steps for Students
Email Deidre Goodrich, CSGS program coordinator, at dgoodrich@wesleyan.edu. Share a link to your Handshake profile and tell her if you are interested in research during the academic year, summer, or both. Deidre will get back to you with additional information.
Next Steps for Nonprofits
Email Deidre Goodrich, CSGS program coordinator, at dgoodrich@wesleyan.edu, to discuss your organization’s research opportunity. Please be prepared to provide the following information:
- Organization mission statement
- Description of the student project, outlining tasks and goals
- Required student qualifications and experience
- Project duration and approximate weekly hours
- Work site details (remote, hybrid, or on-location)
- Supervision plan detailing who will supervise the student and how
- Contact information
CSGS will review potential candidates and direct qualified Wesleyan undergraduate students to you for consideration.