Urban Leadership Fellows Program

The Urban Leadership Fellows (ULF) Program is a collaboration between Futures and Options and The Municipal Forum of New York, Inc., which provides New York City students the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on work experience and training in the Municipal Finance industry. This immersive six week summer program exposes graduating high school seniors to the Municipal Finance industry through supported, paid summer internships. 

The ULF program allows for students interested in business, finance, government, and/or public policy to explore how these components intersect within the field of Municipal Finance. This is achieved through interning with a municipal finance related company, participating in supplemental workshops, and connecting with industry professionals. Students will receive support and coaching from their internship supervisors, industry mentors, and Futures and Options Coordinators and will walk away from the experience with developed skill sets and lasting relationships. Upon completion of the program, participants receive a book and technology stipend and gain eligibility for a range of scholarships available throughout their college years.

The most beneficial aspect of the ULF Program was being able to step outside of my comfort zone. Throughout the program I was constantly being challenged in ways I never was before (public speaking, networking, etc.). Being able to challenge myself became exciting which is something I never thought I would say.

— Xin Qing (Sunny) Lu, 2024 Participant