Journalism Internships for High School Students

In today’s fast-paced media landscape, gaining real-world experience as early as high school can be invaluable.

Journalism internships offer students a unique opportunity to work alongside professionals, develop their writing and reporting skills, and build a portfolio that stands out to future employers and college admissions officers.

Whether you’re passionate about news reporting, sports journalism, photojournalism, or multimedia storytelling, there’s an internship out there for you.

This guide highlights 20 fantastic journalism internships for high school students, offering a blend of summer programs, mentorships, and hands-on experience.

Why Pursue a Journalism Internship in High School?

Internships provide a stepping stone into the world of journalism. They allow students to:

• Gain real-world experience.
• Develop critical writing and research skills.
• Network with industry professionals.
• Understand the workings of a newsroom.
• Enhance college applications and resumes.

Participating in a journalism internship during high school can be a transformative experience. Not only do these internships provide a solid foundation in journalistic practices, but they also offer a glimpse into the professional world, fostering a deeper understanding of the media industry.

When students, whether they are junior or senior, start engaging in these programs, they can hone their abilities to research, write, and report accurately and effectively, skills that are highly valued in any career path but here especially if they have an interest in journalism. 

Also, the connections made during these internships can open doors to future opportunities and mentorships, which are crucial for career development.

Journalism Internships for High School Students

1. New York Times Summer Internship Program

This prestigious program offers high school students the chance to work in one of the world’s leading newsrooms.

Interns participate in reporting, editing, and multimedia projects, gaining insight into high-level journalism. The program is designed to challenge students and push them to develop their skills in a real-world environment.

Interns are given responsibilities that include researching and writing articles, assisting in the production of multimedia content, and learning the intricacies of the editorial process. 

This hands-on experience is invaluable for anyone looking to pursue a career in journalism.

2. Washington Post Young Journalists Development Program

The Washington Post offers a summer internship focusing on news reporting and digital media. Interns receive mentorship from seasoned journalists and have the opportunity to publish their work.

This program is particularly beneficial for students interested in digital journalism and the evolving landscape of news media. Interns work on various projects, from breaking news stories to in-depth features, and are encouraged to pitch their own story ideas.

The mentorship aspect of the program ensures that interns receive personalized feedback and guidance, helping them to grow as writers and reporters.

3. The Student Press Law Center Internship

This internship provides students interested in media law and press freedom a chance to work with the SPLC, contributing to their news and legal guides. Interns learn about the legal challenges faced by journalists and gain experience in legal research and writing.

This program is ideal for students considering a career in media law or investigative journalism. Interns are involved in researching and writing articles on press freedom issues, assisting with legal inquiries, and contributing to educational resources for student journalists.

The experience gained through this internship can be pivotal for those looking to make a difference in the field of media law.

4. NPR Internships for High School Students

National Public Radio offers internships in various departments, including news, music, and digital media. Interns gain hands-on experience and professional development.

Working at NPR provides students with the opportunity to learn about radio journalism and the production of news programs. Interns assist with research, scriptwriting, and audio editing, and have the chance to contribute to NPR’s renowned programming.

The internship also includes professional development workshops and networking events, helping students to build a strong foundation for their future careers.

5. PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs

High school students can join PBS NewsHour’s Student Reporting Labs, where they learn to produce original news stories and connect with a network of young reporters nationwide.

This program focuses on teaching students the principles of journalism and the technical skills needed to produce high-quality news segments. Interns work on stories that matter to their communities, learning how to research, interview, and edit video content.

The program also emphasizes media literacy and the importance of ethical journalism, preparing students to be thoughtful and responsible reporters.

6. TIME Magazine High School Internship Program

TIME offers internships that immerse students in magazine journalism, from writing and editing to research and multimedia production.

Interns at TIME have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, including feature articles, news stories, and multimedia content.

The program provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of magazine journalism, with interns participating in editorial meetings, conducting interviews, and assisting with the production of digital and print content.

This experience is invaluable for students interested in pursuing a career in magazine journalism or any other form of long-form writing.

7. Scholastic News Kids Press Corps

A unique opportunity for young aspiring journalists to report on current events, entertainment, sports, and more for Scholastic’s national publication.

The Scholastic News Kids Press Corps allows students to gain experience in writing, reporting, and interviewing. Interns cover a wide range of topics, from local news to national events, and their work is published in Scholastic’s widely read publications.

This program is particularly beneficial for students who enjoy writing and are passionate about sharing stories with a younger audience. It also provides a platform for students to develop their voice and style as writers.

8. The New York Daily News High School Journalism Workshop

This summer program provides students with the chance to work in a fast-paced newsroom environment, covering local news stories and features.

Interns at the New York Daily News are involved in all aspects of the news production process, from researching and writing articles to editing and publishing content. 

The workshop includes training sessions on journalism fundamentals, such as news writing, interviewing, and fact-checking.

Interns are also given the opportunity to shadow professional journalists and learn about the day-to-day operations of a major metropolitan newspaper.

9. The Boston Globe Summer High School Internship

Students work alongside Globe journalists, learning the ropes of investigative reporting, writing, and editing.

This internship provides a deep dive into the world of print and digital journalism, with interns participating in news meetings, conducting research, and writing articles for publication.

The Boston Globe internship emphasizes investigative journalism, teaching students how to uncover important stories and report them accurately and ethically.

Interns are also given the chance to work on special projects and multimedia content, gaining a well-rounded experience in the newsroom.

10. Chicago Tribune High School Intern Program

Interns at the Chicago Tribune engage in hands-on reporting, covering everything from city news to sports and entertainment.

The program offers a comprehensive introduction to journalism, with interns working alongside professional reporters and editors. Interns are responsible for researching and writing articles, conducting interviews, and assisting with multimedia content.

The Chicago Tribune internship also includes training sessions on journalism ethics, news writing, and digital media, helping students to develop their skills and understanding of the industry.

11. Los Angeles Times High School Internship

This program offers aspiring journalists the opportunity to work in a major metropolitan newsroom, gaining experience in reporting, photography, and digital media.

Interns at the Los Angeles Times are involved in a variety of journalistic tasks, from writing and editing articles to producing multimedia content.

The program includes training sessions on journalism fundamentals, such as news writing, interviewing, and photography.

Interns are also given the chance to shadow professional journalists and learn about the day-to-day operations of a major metropolitan newspaper.

12. The Philadelphia Inquirer Summer Internship

High school students can join The Philadelphia Inquirer, working on a variety of journalistic tasks, from writing to multimedia projects.

Interns at The Inquirer are involved in all aspects of the news production process, from researching and writing articles to editing and publishing content. The internship includes training sessions on journalism fundamentals, such as news writing, interviewing, and fact-checking.

Interns are also given the opportunity to shadow professional journalists and learn about the day-to-day operations of a major metropolitan newspaper.

13. CNN High School Mentorship Program

CNN’s program pairs students with mentors in various departments, providing exposure to broadcast journalism and digital media.

Interns at CNN are involved in a variety of journalistic tasks, from writing and editing scripts to producing multimedia content. The program includes training sessions on journalism fundamentals, such as news writing, interviewing, and digital media production.

Interns are also given the chance to shadow professional journalists and learn about the day-to-day operations of a major broadcast news organization.

14. ProPublica Emerging Reporters Program

ProPublica offers a program for young journalists from underrepresented backgrounds, focusing on investigative journalism and newsroom skills.

Interns at ProPublica are involved in all aspects of the news production process, from researching and writing articles to editing and publishing content.

The program includes training sessions on journalism fundamentals, such as news writing, interviewing, and investigative reporting.

Interns are also given the opportunity to shadow professional journalists and learn about the day-to-day operations of a major investigative news organization.

15. VICE Media High School Internship

Students interested in alternative media can intern at VICE, where they gain experience in multimedia storytelling and unconventional journalism.

Interns at VICE are involved in a variety of journalistic tasks, from writing and editing articles to producing multimedia content.

The program includes training sessions on journalism fundamentals, such as news writing, interviewing, and digital media production.

Interns are also given the chance to shadow professional journalists and learn about the day-to-day operations of a major alternative media organization.

16. BuzzFeed High School Internship

This program provides hands-on experience in digital media, including writing, social media, and video production.

Interns at BuzzFeed are involved in a variety of journalistic tasks, from writing and editing articles to producing multimedia content. The program includes training sessions on journalism fundamentals, such as news writing, interviewing, and digital media production.

Interns are also given the chance to shadow professional journalists and learn about the day-to-day operations of a major digital media organization.

17. HuffPost Teen Journalism Program

HuffPost offers a teen journalism program where high school students can publish their work on a major digital platform.

Interns at HuffPost are involved in a variety of journalistic tasks, from writing and editing articles to producing multimedia content. The program includes training sessions on journalism fundamentals, such as news writing, interviewing, and digital media production.

Interns are also given the chance to shadow professional journalists and learn about the day-to-day operations of a major digital media organization.

18. The Guardian High School Internship

Interns at The Guardian gain experience in global journalism, working on reporting and multimedia projects in an international newsroom.

The program includes training sessions on journalism fundamentals, such as news writing, interviewing, and digital media production.

Interns are also given the chance to shadow professional journalists and learn about the day-to-day operations of a major international news organization.

19. National Geographic Student Expeditions

This program combines journalism with adventure, allowing students to report on global issues and environmental stories.

Interns at National Geographic are involved in a variety of journalistic tasks, from writing and editing articles to producing multimedia content. The program includes training sessions on journalism fundamentals, such as news writing, interviewing, and digital media production.

Interns are also given the chance to shadow professional journalists and learn about the day-to-day operations of a major international news organization.

20. Associated Press Summer Internship

AP offers high school students the chance to work with one of the largest news organizations, covering a variety of beats and gaining professional experience.

Interns at AP are involved in a variety of journalistic tasks, from writing and editing articles to producing multimedia content.

The program includes training sessions on journalism fundamentals, such as news writing, interviewing, and digital media production. Interns are also given the chance to shadow professional journalists and learn about the day-to-day operations of a major international news organization.

How to Apply for Journalism Internships

Applying for journalism internships can be competitive, but with the right approach, you can stand out. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Prepare a Strong Portfolio

Gather your best writing samples, multimedia projects, and any relevant work that showcases your skills.

A well-organized portfolio can demonstrate your abilities and dedication to prospective internship programs.

Include a variety of pieces that highlight different aspects of your journalistic skills, such as news articles, feature stories, and multimedia projects. Make sure each piece is polished and free of errors, the good thing is plenty of tools to help with that.

2. Write a Compelling Resume and Cover Letter

Highlight your experiences, skills, and passion for journalism. Your resume should include your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any extracurricular activities related to journalism.

Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in the internship, what you hope to gain from the experience, and how your skills and experiences make you a strong candidate.

3. Research Each Program Thoroughly

Understand the specifics of each internship and tailor your application accordingly. Learn about the organization’s mission, the type of work interns are expected to do, and any specific requirements for the application.

Tailoring your application to each program shows that you have done your homework and are genuinely interested in the opportunity.

4. Seek Recommendations

Ask teachers, advisors, or mentors for letters of recommendation. Choose individuals who are familiar with your work and can speak to your skills, work ethic, and passion for journalism.

Provide them with a copy of your resume and cover letter, and give them plenty of time to write a thoughtful and detailed recommendation.

5. Practice Interview Skills

Be ready to discuss your work, interests, and why you’re a good fit for the internship. Prepare for common interview questions and practice answering them with a friend or family member.

During the interview, be sure to highlight your skills and experiences, and explain how they make you a strong candidate for the internship.

Also, have some questions ready to ask the interviewer about the program and the organization.

Bottom Line

Journalism internships for high school students are a fantastic way to jumpstart your career in media. They offer unparalleled opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with industry professionals.

Whether you’re aiming to become a news reporter, photojournalist, or multimedia storyteller, the experiences you gain through these internships will be invaluable.

So, start exploring these opportunities, prepare your applications, and take the first step towards a bright future in journalism!