Alumni Portal
College Coach Fellowship - Apply By April 30
The Brooklyn Debate Leagueis seeking college students to join our College Coach Fellowship, a mentorship-based program that prepares the next generation of debate educators.
Fellows will work alongside experienced BDL coaches to support debate programs in NYC schools while developing their own teaching and coaching skills. This is an excellent opportunity for college debaters interested in education, mentorship, and youth engagement.
What Fellows Do
Assist coaches in facilitating practices and tournament registration
Work with a mentor coach to learn lesson planning and teaching strategies
Gain hands-on experience teaching middle and high school students
Who Should Apply
Students who will be enrolled in college beginning September 2026
Former debaters or students with strong interest in public speaking and argumentation
Students interested in education, coaching, or youth mentorship
Applicants who are excited about expanding access to debate for NYC students
What You'll Gain
Hands-on teaching experience
Mentorship from experienced BDL debate educators
Training in coaching and lesson design
Leadership and professional development
Application Includes
Short written responses
A brief introduction video
A short model lesson video explaining how you would teach a debate concept
BDL is committed to expanding access to debate education and strongly encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.
FAQ
Q: Is the College Coach Fellowship program paid?
A: Yes, Coach Fellows will receive competitive hourly stipends for their time.
Q: Am I allowed to participate in the College Coach Fellowship at the same time as the Alumni Fellowship and/or the Cohort Captain program?
A: As long as you graduated from a BDL Partner School, you can absolutely be an Alum Fellow while being a College Coach Fellow. As for Cohort Captain, you are welcome to apply to both programs, but we will only let you participate in one during your first year of college, and then we’ll re-assess your interest at the end of your freshman year.
Q: What is the duration of the College Coach Fellowship?
A: We ask students to commit for the entire school year, and pending their performance, we hope to invite them to return for each year of college.
Q: Is the College Coach Fellowship only open to students attending colleges in NYC?
A: No, we have in-person and online coaching opportunities, so anyone can apply.
Q: Is the College Coach Fellowship only open to students who participated in Brooklyn Debate League in high school?
A: Preference will be given to students who participated in Brooklyn Debate League, but all applications will be considered.