If you know that graduate or professional school is in your future, you probably already have begun to ponder how you will fund this next stage in your education. Even if you are confident that the graduate program you choose will provide comprehensive funding, you should thoroughly investigate all fellowship options, including those in the following pages. Winning external funding is a testimony to your ability to compete in larger arenas outside your chosen university. It also provides flexibility, perhaps allowing you greater control over the teaching and research assignments you take on and your timeframe for degree completion. The process of applying for an award will itself make you a better graduate student, helping you to clarify the goals, motives, and interests that will sustain you as achieve your degree.