The NewsTalk New England JumpStart Journalism Program (JSJ) is a comprehensive and immersive journalism-focused internship and educational program designed specifically for rising 11th and 12th grade high school students. Our program aims to cultivate a deep understanding of journalism and its profound impact on society while providing students with the essential knowledge, skills, and networking opportunities necessary for a successful transition to college and careers in the media industry.
Internship Overview:
Participants in JSJ will embark on a transformative journey that encompasses various areas such as Journalism Literacy and Digital Learning, Journalism Career Development, and Mentorship. Throughout this program, students will engage in hands-on experiences that will enhance their awareness of journalism’s role in shaping public discourse and society.
Our commitment is to ensure ongoing access and opportunity for students, particularly those from underrepresented and diverse communities, thereby serving as a vital pipeline for nurturing the next generation of media professionals. By focusing on three key pillars—Media Literacy and Digital Learning, Media Career Development, and Mentorship—we aspire to provide students with invaluable insights and practical experiences that will prepare them for future endeavors.
JSJ is designed to be an intensive, real-world experience where students will work closely with seasoned professionals in the field of journalism. Accepted interns will develop essential skills in public speaking, production research, script and story writing, along with editing and audio production—skills that are pivotal not only for excelling in a college environment but also for building a robust career in the media landscape.
Internship Highlights:
Throughout this enriching internship, participants will have the opportunity to:
Receive A Certificate:
Gain a certificate in the fundamentals of journalism to acknowledge their achievements and learning.
Network with Professionals:
Meet industry experts and learn about their diverse career paths while receiving tailored career advice that can aid in their professional journey.
Behind-the-Scenes Access:
Tour newsrooms, studios, or television production sets, offering a glimpse into the inner workings of the media industry.
Enhance Writing and Research Skills:
Write compelling stories for NewsTalk New England, strengthening their reporting abilities and storytelling techniques.
Produce Original Content:
Hone digital production and storytelling skills by creating original shows for NewsTalk New England, giving practical experience in content creation.
Mentorship Opportunities:
Build meaningful connections within the industry by receiving ongoing mentorship from experienced journalists who can guide their growth.
Eligibility Requirements:
The application process is open to all rising 11th and 12th grade students who have a passion for journalism. Applicants must present a valid youth employment permit to participate. For guidance on obtaining this permit, students should consult their high school principal or guidance counselor.
Internship Timeline:
The Summer/Fall internship will last a total of six months and will consist of structured meetings five times a week, each session lasting five hours. Below is the detailed timeline for the application and internship periods:
March 3, 2025: Application opens.
March 21, 2025, by 5 PM: Application deadline.
April 1, 2025: Notification of finalist candidates.
April 8, 2025: In-person interviews with finalist candidates.
April 15, 2025: Notification of accepted interns.
Application Process:
To apply for this transformative internship, candidates must submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher or mentor, emphasizing their qualifications and potential in the field. The letter should include the recommender’s name, phone number, and email address. Please ensure all email addresses provided within the application are accurate, as errors could hinder communication regarding the application status.
If you have any questions or require further information about the internship, do not hesitate to reach out to Laura Soukkavong at soukkavong.laura@outlook.com