The National Journalism Center
Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about NJC! If you have any additional questions, please contact Lauren Smith .

About the Application Process

What do I need in order to complete my application?

There are 5 main components of the NJC application. These materials can be e-mailed to Lauren Smith, faxed, or mailed to the NJC office.

• Application (which can be completed online here )
• Cover Letter
• Resume
• 2-3 Writing Samples (of 5 pages or less; news clips preferred)
  
• 3 References (letters of recommendation may be submitted only in addition to reference contact information)
  

* An official transcript may be requested at a later date.

Do I need letters of recommendation?

You do not need to submit letters of recommendation; full contact information for your references is preferred. You may submit reference letters if you choose, but only in addition to submitting detailed contact information for your references. However, they often slow down the application process and they must be submitted on official letterhead.

What writing samples do you prefer?

Ultimately, we would like interns to have published news clips that best exemplify your talents as a news reporter. However, we recognize that some candidates might not have news clips; if you do not have published material, please send us an academic sample that clearly demonstrates your writing ability (no longer than 5 pages). If you are sending academic samples, we recommend sending them from courses that would related to an internship in Washington, including papers on public policy, economics, business, communications, journalism, etc.

What are you seeking in a candidate?

The National Journalism Center seeks candidates that are dedicated to becoming better journalists, becoming a more responsible reporter, and combating media bias.

What is the next step in the NJC application process?

When you have submitted all components of your application, your materials will be reviewed by the NJC staff. If we feel that you could potentially be a valuable asset to the NJC program, we will contact you for a series of interviews with staff members, including the academic director. Please note that not all applicants will be granted interviews. Additionally, applicants will not be notified if they are not selected for an interview nor selected to participate in the program. 

About Living in Washington

Is there any cost to the program, or do interns receive a stipend?

There is no cost for interns to participate in the National Journalism Center program, and interns actually receive a $1,000 monthly stipend which is pro-rated for partial months. Interns frequently use part or all of their stipend to pay for housing, food, and transportation while in Washington.

Does NJC provide housing for its interns?

NJC does not provide housing. However, we will provide you with resources to help you find housing in the area. If you are interested, a housing guide can be e-mailed to you.

About the Internships

When do I find out about my placement?

Participants are notified about their media placements during orientation. However, some media organizations will contact NJC interns for interviews or to set up logistical information; please note that these interviews are in conjunction with the NJC program and are NOT separate internships. Everyone will be notified officially about their placement and provided with contact information for their supervisor during orientation.

What is a typical week like?

The NJC program is a full-time internship; however, some interns are students and taking classes and participating in the program part-time. Interns typically spend between 30 and 35 hours at their media placements, and also participate in the NJC weekly training seminar (mandatory). Because news is not 9-5, your internship placement may require you to work some nights or weekends.

About the Training Seminars

What do the training seminars consist of?

The seminars typically begin with a speaker, either a prominent journalist or public policy expert. These speakers share insights into the industry, career advice, or resources for journalists to take advantage of. After the speaker(s), interns participate in sessions with the academic director, which include writing and grammar exercises, reading assignments, and current event discussions. These sessions are designed to give interns a better understanding of media, society and public policy, and the intersection between the three here in Washington, D.C.

Why should I choose the NJC program?

The NJC not only offers just the opportunities of interning at top notch news organizations, but we offer seminars that will improve your writing and make your skills marketable to prospective employers. The other benefits include hearing from exciting, well-known speakers and connecting with other NJC interns and alumni from across the country and around the world.