7 answers
Corrine
Student
Leesburg, Virginia
1
Question
Asked
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What volunteer/internship experiences (for high-schoolers) did you find to be helpful for future journalists?
As a 17 year old high school senior who's become increasingly interested in journalism during my time in high school, I'm struggling to find volunteer opportunities that could possibly get my foot in the door to my planned career. I plan to contact the local newspaper and library to start. Thanks!
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7 answers
Donnetta Williams
Vendor Coordinator
9
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Donnetta’s Answer
Exploring volunteer or internship opportunities as a high school senior interested in journalism is a great way to get started! Here are a few options that could help you build valuable experience:
1. Local Newspaper or Magazine
Why It’s Helpful: Working with a local newspaper or magazine allows you to learn directly from professionals, understand the newsroom environment, and get hands-on experience with writing, editing, and researching. You could assist with reporting, fact-checking, or even write small articles or blog posts.
How to Get Started: Reach out to the editor or HR department to inquire about any available internships or volunteer roles.
2. School Newspaper or Yearbook
Why It’s Helpful: Being involved in your school’s newspaper or yearbook committee gives you a chance to practice writing, interviewing, and editing, as well as learn about the publication process.
How to Get Started: If you aren’t already involved, join your school’s newspaper or yearbook staff. Take on roles that involve writing articles, editing, or managing social media.
3. Local Library
Why It’s Helpful: Volunteering at a library can give you access to archives, help you improve research skills, and might involve organizing events like author talks or reading programs.
How to Get Started: Contact your local library and ask about volunteer opportunities, particularly those related to media, literature, or community events.
4. Community Radio or TV Station
Why It’s Helpful: Community radio or TV stations often welcome volunteers and interns. You can learn about broadcasting, scriptwriting, and interviewing techniques.
How to Get Started: Find out if your town has a community radio or TV station, and ask about volunteering in areas like production, writing, or on-air work.
5. Nonprofit Organizations
Why It’s Helpful: Many nonprofits need help with communications, newsletters, or managing social media. This experience is directly applicable to journalism, especially in terms of storytelling and community engagement.
How to Get Started: Research local nonprofits that align with your interests and offer to help with their media or outreach efforts.
6. Online Blogging or Podcasting
Why It’s Helpful: Starting your own blog or podcast can help you build a portfolio, practice writing, and engage with an audience. It’s also a great way to explore topics you’re passionate about.
How to Get Started: Choose a niche you’re interested in, set up a blog or podcast, and start creating content. Platforms like WordPress or Anchor make it easy to begin.
7. Shadowing a Journalist
Why It’s Helpful: Shadowing a professional journalist provides insight into the day-to-day work, including interviewing, writing, and deadline management.
How to Get Started: Reach out to journalists in your area (perhaps through connections at your local newspaper) and ask if you can shadow them for a day or two.
8. Journalism Workshops or Summer Programs
Why It’s Helpful: Many universities and organizations offer journalism workshops or summer programs for high school students. These programs provide structured learning and networking opportunities.
How to Get Started: Research programs offered by universities or journalism organizations, and apply for the ones that align with your interests.
9. Writing Competitions
Why It’s Helpful: Participating in writing competitions helps you refine your skills and gain recognition. Many journalism competitions are open to high school students and can bolster your resume.
How to Get Started: Look for journalism or writing competitions online, especially those targeted at high school students.
Contacting your local newspaper and library is a great first step. From there, you can explore these other options to build your skills and network in journalism. Good luck!
1. Local Newspaper or Magazine
Why It’s Helpful: Working with a local newspaper or magazine allows you to learn directly from professionals, understand the newsroom environment, and get hands-on experience with writing, editing, and researching. You could assist with reporting, fact-checking, or even write small articles or blog posts.
How to Get Started: Reach out to the editor or HR department to inquire about any available internships or volunteer roles.
2. School Newspaper or Yearbook
Why It’s Helpful: Being involved in your school’s newspaper or yearbook committee gives you a chance to practice writing, interviewing, and editing, as well as learn about the publication process.
How to Get Started: If you aren’t already involved, join your school’s newspaper or yearbook staff. Take on roles that involve writing articles, editing, or managing social media.
3. Local Library
Why It’s Helpful: Volunteering at a library can give you access to archives, help you improve research skills, and might involve organizing events like author talks or reading programs.
How to Get Started: Contact your local library and ask about volunteer opportunities, particularly those related to media, literature, or community events.
4. Community Radio or TV Station
Why It’s Helpful: Community radio or TV stations often welcome volunteers and interns. You can learn about broadcasting, scriptwriting, and interviewing techniques.
How to Get Started: Find out if your town has a community radio or TV station, and ask about volunteering in areas like production, writing, or on-air work.
5. Nonprofit Organizations
Why It’s Helpful: Many nonprofits need help with communications, newsletters, or managing social media. This experience is directly applicable to journalism, especially in terms of storytelling and community engagement.
How to Get Started: Research local nonprofits that align with your interests and offer to help with their media or outreach efforts.
6. Online Blogging or Podcasting
Why It’s Helpful: Starting your own blog or podcast can help you build a portfolio, practice writing, and engage with an audience. It’s also a great way to explore topics you’re passionate about.
How to Get Started: Choose a niche you’re interested in, set up a blog or podcast, and start creating content. Platforms like WordPress or Anchor make it easy to begin.
7. Shadowing a Journalist
Why It’s Helpful: Shadowing a professional journalist provides insight into the day-to-day work, including interviewing, writing, and deadline management.
How to Get Started: Reach out to journalists in your area (perhaps through connections at your local newspaper) and ask if you can shadow them for a day or two.
8. Journalism Workshops or Summer Programs
Why It’s Helpful: Many universities and organizations offer journalism workshops or summer programs for high school students. These programs provide structured learning and networking opportunities.
How to Get Started: Research programs offered by universities or journalism organizations, and apply for the ones that align with your interests.
9. Writing Competitions
Why It’s Helpful: Participating in writing competitions helps you refine your skills and gain recognition. Many journalism competitions are open to high school students and can bolster your resume.
How to Get Started: Look for journalism or writing competitions online, especially those targeted at high school students.
Contacting your local newspaper and library is a great first step. From there, you can explore these other options to build your skills and network in journalism. Good luck!
Joanne Williams
Associate Professor
31
Answers
Olivet, Michigan
Updated
Joanne’s Answer
Good places ot start.
And also start with yourself. This social world offers you plentyo f platforms and places to start a blog, contribute comments and suggestions, review, etc. Entry contests, offer to help small non-profits with their material. Get out there! And good luck.
And also start with yourself. This social world offers you plentyo f platforms and places to start a blog, contribute comments and suggestions, review, etc. Entry contests, offer to help small non-profits with their material. Get out there! And good luck.
Lirio Delgado
201
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Lirio’s Answer
That’s a great initiative! Gaining experience through volunteer work and internships can be incredibly valuable for aspiring journalists. Here are some volunteer and internship experiences that can be particularly helpful for high school students interested in journalism:
### **1. School Newspaper or Yearbook**
- **Roles**: Reporter, editor, photographer, or layout designer.
- **Benefits**: Provides hands-on experience in writing, editing, and publishing. It also helps build a portfolio of your work.
### **2. Local Newspapers and Magazines**
- **Roles**: Intern, junior reporter, or editorial assistant.
- **Benefits**: Offers real-world experience in journalism, including interviewing, researching, and reporting on local stories.
### **3. Community Radio or TV Stations**
- **Roles**: Intern, assistant producer, or on-air talent.
- **Benefits**: Provides experience with audio and video journalism, which can be valuable if you're interested in multimedia journalism.
### **4. Non-Profit Organizations**
- **Roles**: Communications intern, social media manager, or event coordinator.
- **Benefits**: Helps you develop skills in writing press releases, managing social media, and creating content for various platforms.
### **5. Blogging or Personal Projects**
- **Roles**: Blogger, content creator, or freelance writer.
- **Benefits**: Allows you to build a personal portfolio and gain experience in writing, editing, and content management. You can also explore your interests and develop a unique voice.
### **6. Local Libraries**
- **Roles**: Volunteer assistant, event organizer, or newsletter contributor.
- **Benefits**: Provides opportunities to write for library newsletters, help organize events, and engage with the community.
### **7. Online News Platforms**
- **Roles**: Contributor, intern, or reviewer.
- **Benefits**: Offers experience in writing for online audiences and learning about digital media and SEO.
### **8. Youth or Student Journalism Organizations**
- **Examples**: Student Press Law Center, Scholastic Press Association.
- **Benefits**: Provides networking opportunities, workshops, and resources tailored to young journalists.
### **9. Local Government or Civic Organizations**
- **Roles**: Public relations assistant, content creator, or event volunteer.
- **Benefits**: Helps you understand the relationship between media and government, and gain experience in writing and communications.
### **10. High School Clubs and Activities**
- **Roles**: Publicity chair for a club, event organizer, or newsletter editor.
- **Benefits**: Provides opportunities to practice writing and communication skills in a school setting.
### **Additional Tips:**
- **Build a Portfolio**: Collect samples of your work, whether from school assignments, personal projects, or volunteer positions. A strong portfolio is crucial for showcasing your skills.
- **Network**: Attend journalism-related events, workshops, and seminars. Networking with professionals can provide valuable advice and opportunities.
- **Seek Out Mentors**: Find a mentor in the journalism field who can offer guidance, feedback, and support.
- **Be Proactive**: Don’t hesitate to reach out to organizations and professionals in your area. Even if they don’t have formal internship programs, they may be willing to offer guidance or create an opportunity for you.
Volunteering and interning in these areas can provide practical experience, build your resume, and help you develop essential skills for a career in journalism. Good luck with your efforts and your future career!
### **1. School Newspaper or Yearbook**
- **Roles**: Reporter, editor, photographer, or layout designer.
- **Benefits**: Provides hands-on experience in writing, editing, and publishing. It also helps build a portfolio of your work.
### **2. Local Newspapers and Magazines**
- **Roles**: Intern, junior reporter, or editorial assistant.
- **Benefits**: Offers real-world experience in journalism, including interviewing, researching, and reporting on local stories.
### **3. Community Radio or TV Stations**
- **Roles**: Intern, assistant producer, or on-air talent.
- **Benefits**: Provides experience with audio and video journalism, which can be valuable if you're interested in multimedia journalism.
### **4. Non-Profit Organizations**
- **Roles**: Communications intern, social media manager, or event coordinator.
- **Benefits**: Helps you develop skills in writing press releases, managing social media, and creating content for various platforms.
### **5. Blogging or Personal Projects**
- **Roles**: Blogger, content creator, or freelance writer.
- **Benefits**: Allows you to build a personal portfolio and gain experience in writing, editing, and content management. You can also explore your interests and develop a unique voice.
### **6. Local Libraries**
- **Roles**: Volunteer assistant, event organizer, or newsletter contributor.
- **Benefits**: Provides opportunities to write for library newsletters, help organize events, and engage with the community.
### **7. Online News Platforms**
- **Roles**: Contributor, intern, or reviewer.
- **Benefits**: Offers experience in writing for online audiences and learning about digital media and SEO.
### **8. Youth or Student Journalism Organizations**
- **Examples**: Student Press Law Center, Scholastic Press Association.
- **Benefits**: Provides networking opportunities, workshops, and resources tailored to young journalists.
### **9. Local Government or Civic Organizations**
- **Roles**: Public relations assistant, content creator, or event volunteer.
- **Benefits**: Helps you understand the relationship between media and government, and gain experience in writing and communications.
### **10. High School Clubs and Activities**
- **Roles**: Publicity chair for a club, event organizer, or newsletter editor.
- **Benefits**: Provides opportunities to practice writing and communication skills in a school setting.
### **Additional Tips:**
- **Build a Portfolio**: Collect samples of your work, whether from school assignments, personal projects, or volunteer positions. A strong portfolio is crucial for showcasing your skills.
- **Network**: Attend journalism-related events, workshops, and seminars. Networking with professionals can provide valuable advice and opportunities.
- **Seek Out Mentors**: Find a mentor in the journalism field who can offer guidance, feedback, and support.
- **Be Proactive**: Don’t hesitate to reach out to organizations and professionals in your area. Even if they don’t have formal internship programs, they may be willing to offer guidance or create an opportunity for you.
Volunteering and interning in these areas can provide practical experience, build your resume, and help you develop essential skills for a career in journalism. Good luck with your efforts and your future career!
Gregory Andracke
Cinematographer
17
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
As an 81 year old retired cinematographer and photographer I reached back into the memory bank and recall that I did a lot of work for the yearbook. Later in college I got a freelance gig at a weekly newspaper and shot 4x5 film images and printed them on 8x10 glossy paper as per the newspapers requirements. Lot's has changed technically in 64 years but the essence of the image has not. It should tell a story even if it is a simple picture of a group that has a common interest. Perhaps your local paper might be interested in human interest pictures or nature images that you submit on a use for free basis. Sorry I cannot be more helpful but I'm fairly certain that the other folks that posted made some helpful suggestions. Good luck, Greg NYC
Zanny Steffgen
Freelance writer
4
Answers
Fort Collins, Colorado
Updated
Zanny’s Answer
I see a lot of great advice here about writing-related internships and experiences, so I want to offer a slightly different suggestion: take on a volunteer experience or internship that helps you learn how to talk to people and identify stories.
When I was in high school and a young adult, I took on volunteer shifts with troubled kids and worked in a restaurant on the side. Although I pursued these experience because I enjoyed them and they felt right to me at the time (not to get my foot in the door as a journalist), they ended up enriching my life in ways that boosted my writing career.
By volunteering with troubled kids, I learned how to be a good listener, de-escalate situations, and have empathy. By working in a restaurant, I learned customer service, small talk, and time management. These are the qualities I've since built my successful writing career with!
All this to say--don't force an internship or experience because you want to get ahead in your career already. Instead, I'd advise you to choose experiences based on what genuinely interests you and be open to lessons that will be relevant to journalism but may come in different forms. If you're planning on going to journalism school or already work with your school newspaper, you'll already learn all the journalism-specific skills you need. It's the other, complementary skills and qualities that you want to develop, many of which can be found if you follow your genuine interests!
When I was in high school and a young adult, I took on volunteer shifts with troubled kids and worked in a restaurant on the side. Although I pursued these experience because I enjoyed them and they felt right to me at the time (not to get my foot in the door as a journalist), they ended up enriching my life in ways that boosted my writing career.
By volunteering with troubled kids, I learned how to be a good listener, de-escalate situations, and have empathy. By working in a restaurant, I learned customer service, small talk, and time management. These are the qualities I've since built my successful writing career with!
All this to say--don't force an internship or experience because you want to get ahead in your career already. Instead, I'd advise you to choose experiences based on what genuinely interests you and be open to lessons that will be relevant to journalism but may come in different forms. If you're planning on going to journalism school or already work with your school newspaper, you'll already learn all the journalism-specific skills you need. It's the other, complementary skills and qualities that you want to develop, many of which can be found if you follow your genuine interests!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1865
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Corrine !
This is a good question because it shows that you are ambitious and eager to step in to a wonderful career in Journalism. If you are already writing for your High School Newspaper, there are other things that you can do before you enter college. Once in college as a Journalism Major, you will indeed be working on projects that you are assigned and also finding projects on your own.
I would advise connecting with any groups or activities at your school that involve any type of writing or video work. Did you know that you can start sending your articles and work to publications now ? I have left four web links below for publications that welcome writing from people in your age range. There are many, many more, however. You can be totally self-directed or be involved in a group for Journalism, but it is something that you can do now and build up a portfolio of your work. I've left a link for you below for a website that has ideas for projects that you can start on your own or within a group.
Once you are in college, if you major in Journalism, Communications Studies, Mass Media or any related major, you can start to become acquainted with studios for doing video and film if you are not already doing that now. There are a few media for journalists, not just writing, so remember that in college. you will expand your skills. Connecting with your local newspaper as well as your local Public Library may be really great for referrals and resources. This career takes a while, it's a process but you can start writing now and submit to various print and web media. I think doing your independent projects would be quicker and better instead of volunteering, because you can actually produce works independently whereas one has no idea what type of volunteer duties a place would allow you to do. Try everything, though. Be unstoppable !
So my advice is to write and submit your work now, plan to enroll as a Journalism or Communication Studies Major for college obtaining a Bachelors Degree. College is also a place to not only obtain experience, but have a few doors open to you for your career. I also recommend a college degree because you would be competing with other journalists that do have a college degree and you'll want to have the education edge for not only developing professional contacts but for more credibility.
I wish you all the best in the beginning of this wonderful path for an exciting career !
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RESEARCH TOPICS AND IDEAS FOR YOUR OWN PROJECTS https://gradcoach.com/research-topics-journalism/
This is a good question because it shows that you are ambitious and eager to step in to a wonderful career in Journalism. If you are already writing for your High School Newspaper, there are other things that you can do before you enter college. Once in college as a Journalism Major, you will indeed be working on projects that you are assigned and also finding projects on your own.
I would advise connecting with any groups or activities at your school that involve any type of writing or video work. Did you know that you can start sending your articles and work to publications now ? I have left four web links below for publications that welcome writing from people in your age range. There are many, many more, however. You can be totally self-directed or be involved in a group for Journalism, but it is something that you can do now and build up a portfolio of your work. I've left a link for you below for a website that has ideas for projects that you can start on your own or within a group.
Once you are in college, if you major in Journalism, Communications Studies, Mass Media or any related major, you can start to become acquainted with studios for doing video and film if you are not already doing that now. There are a few media for journalists, not just writing, so remember that in college. you will expand your skills. Connecting with your local newspaper as well as your local Public Library may be really great for referrals and resources. This career takes a while, it's a process but you can start writing now and submit to various print and web media. I think doing your independent projects would be quicker and better instead of volunteering, because you can actually produce works independently whereas one has no idea what type of volunteer duties a place would allow you to do. Try everything, though. Be unstoppable !
So my advice is to write and submit your work now, plan to enroll as a Journalism or Communication Studies Major for college obtaining a Bachelors Degree. College is also a place to not only obtain experience, but have a few doors open to you for your career. I also recommend a college degree because you would be competing with other journalists that do have a college degree and you'll want to have the education edge for not only developing professional contacts but for more credibility.
I wish you all the best in the beginning of this wonderful path for an exciting career !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Curtz W. Jackson
Content and Script Writer
11
Answers
Bay Shore, New York
Updated
Curtz W.’s Answer
Hello, Carrie!
Your question interests me. The determination may be most affected by what is available in your area. Why is that a concern? A recommendation could be made here for, maybe, a specific company or program that might not be in your locality. I suggest seeking longer-established businesses more than newer operations and start-ups. The extended experience benefits you greater with expert staff.
What is advisable is to consider a LinkedIn teen membership, generally, it is a social website for businesses and professionals. Thank you for your well-wishes. Millions find their jobs from LinkedIn in vast occupations. It’s one of the sites for writers of various genres, fields, and industries, like me, to seek employment. LinkedIn can assist you in finding entry-level positions in your area. The site has helpful features for teenagers and instructive articles and lessons to aid your future launch.
Before indulging in sites like LinkedIn, consider some human connection to fuel your answers. You may consult with a counselor at school or the employment facility in your community, visit local newsletters and newspaper houses, and inquire about input from the editors and journalists. They may offer useful sources. I wish you the best outcome.
Your question interests me. The determination may be most affected by what is available in your area. Why is that a concern? A recommendation could be made here for, maybe, a specific company or program that might not be in your locality. I suggest seeking longer-established businesses more than newer operations and start-ups. The extended experience benefits you greater with expert staff.
What is advisable is to consider a LinkedIn teen membership, generally, it is a social website for businesses and professionals. Thank you for your well-wishes. Millions find their jobs from LinkedIn in vast occupations. It’s one of the sites for writers of various genres, fields, and industries, like me, to seek employment. LinkedIn can assist you in finding entry-level positions in your area. The site has helpful features for teenagers and instructive articles and lessons to aid your future launch.
Before indulging in sites like LinkedIn, consider some human connection to fuel your answers. You may consult with a counselor at school or the employment facility in your community, visit local newsletters and newspaper houses, and inquire about input from the editors and journalists. They may offer useful sources. I wish you the best outcome.