The University may nominate up to 4 students each year. Out of the roughly 200 students nominated by all of the colleges, approximately 60 will be awarded a Thomas J. Watson Fellowship. A candidate's academic record, while not of primary importance, is also considered, together with those extracurricular activities which reflect both initiative and serious dedication.
Leadership takes many forms.
Watson Fellows are expected to be potential leaders. There have been hundreds of Watson Fellows selected since the program began in 1969, and if there is one thing that is clear when you look at them it is that Watsons Fellows don't fit into any neat pattern in terms of academic or personal background or type of project proposed. Perhaps there is a lesson in this. Watson fellows must be highly independent to thrive on a year of independent travel and to succeed in the extended opportunity for individual growth. The person is important because the Foundation is looking for individuals who can demonstrate ability to carry off a successful project under sometimes trying conditions.