Block Student Fellowship on AI and Society

About this program

The Block Student Fellowship on AI and Society is a year-long, cohort-based program for undergraduate and graduate CMU students interested in the social, political, institutional, and ethical dimensions of generative AI. Fellows from disciplines across Carnegie Mellon University will participate in talks, seminars, and Block Center events. During the fall semester, participants will explore the societal implications of AI, build connections across the cohort, and develop project ideas. During the spring semester, interdisciplinary student teams will develop student-directed projects with mentorship from a faculty advisor and peer feedback from the broader cohort. Projects may include public writing, policy proposals, research or analysis, workshops, artwork or other creative work, or pilots of new products, tools, or interventions. The program examines how AI is reshaping work, education, communication, creativity, institutions, governance, democracy, public discourse, civic life, and the production of knowledge. Applications are submitted through a Google form and must address interest in the program, a potential discussion topic, a project idea, and either a recommending CMU faculty member or relevant preparation. Applications are due August 31, 2026. The fellowship provides no accompanying funding.